This creamy loaded bacon ranch potato salad is the ultimate side dish, packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and cool ranch flavor! It’s a hearty dish that everyone will love.
Who can resist a salad with bacon? I like to serve it at BBQs or family gatherings, and it always disappears fast. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just mix everything and chill!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for salads as they hold their shape well. If you can’t find red potatoes, Yukon Golds work beautifully, too. They have a similar creamy texture.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch and flavor. If you want a leaner option, turkey bacon or even pancetta can be good substitutes, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Mayonnaise: A must-have for creaminess! If you’re watching calories or want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or a mayo substitute like avocado mayo, which adds richness.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This gives great flavor. If you don’t have it, you can create your own mix with dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and buttermilk powder.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for the bite, but feel free to swap it with mild or pepper jack for added spice!
How Do I Cook Potatoes Perfectly for Potato Salad?
Cooking potatoes well is essential for your salad’s texture. You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with cold water when placing the potatoes in the pot. This helps them cook evenly.
- Add salt to the water to infuse the potatoes with flavor as they cook.
- Monitor the cooking time closely—around 10-12 minutes should do it. Test with a fork; they should easily pierce the potato without falling apart.
- Drain them right away and let them cool slightly before adding the dressing. Warm potatoes absorb flavors better!
How to Make Creamy Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 pounds red potatoes, cubed
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to prepare this yummy potato salad and about 1 hour to chill it in the fridge so all the flavors come together. In total, plan for around 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by placing the cubed red potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender but still firm. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until it turns crispy. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to drain the excess oil and crumble it into small pieces after it cools.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and the ranch dressing mix until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the creamy base for your potato salad!
4. Combine Everything:
Gently add the warm potatoes to the bowl with the dressing mixture. Carefully fold the potatoes to coat them evenly with the dressing. Then, stir in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Don’t forget to sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow all the flavors to meld together. Just before serving, feel free to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a little extra color and flavor!
Enjoy your creamy loaded bacon ranch potato salad as a delicious, crowd-pleasing side dish for cookouts, picnics, or family dinners! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Another Type of Potato for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While red potatoes work great for their firmness, Yukon Gold potatoes are a fantastic alternative. They have a creamy texture that also holds up well in salads.
How Can I Make This Potato Salad Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based alternative, such as crispy tempeh or mushroom bacon. You can also add more veggies like diced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. However, for the best flavor and freshness, try to consume it within 2 days.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day ahead of time! Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.