All-American Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe

Name: All-American Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 6 cups cubed russet potatoes; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup creamy salad dressing (such as Miracle Whip®); 0.5 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper; 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese; 0.5 cup chopped green onions; 0.5 cup real bacon bits

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

6 cups cubed russet potatoes
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
1 cup creamy salad dressing (such as Miracle Whip)
teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
cup chopped green onions
cup real bacon bits

Directions

Step 1: Place the cubed potatoes into a pot and cover them with cold water. Add the salt and bring the water to a boil. Let the potatoes simmer for about 15 minutes or until they are tender enough to be pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water and run the potatoes under cold water until they are slightly cooled.

Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, creamy salad dressing, and ground black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Add the shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits into the bowl. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine.

Step 5: Add the cooled potatoes into the bowl and gently stir them into the dressing mixture until all the potatoes are evenly coated.

Step 6: Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Information	Amount per Serving
Calories	434
Total Fat	27g
Saturated Fat	11g
Cholesterol	57mg
Sodium	1162mg
Total Carbohydrate	35g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	13g
Vitamin C	33mg
Calcium	206mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	751mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of the Dish

The All-American Loaded Baked Potato Salad combines two iconic American favoritesloaded baked potatoes and potato salad. The origins of loaded baked potatoes can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when chefs began adding toppings such as sour cream, cheese, bacon, and chives to baked potatoes. This creative evolution from a simple baked potato to a "loaded" version quickly became a favorite in American cuisine. Potato salad, on the other hand, has roots that date back to the 18th century, with recipes varying greatly across regions. By merging these two beloved dishes, the All-American Loaded Baked Potato Salad was born, offering a rich, creamy, and flavorful take on traditional potato salad, now popular at BBQs and gatherings across the United States.

Regional Variations

Across the U.S., potato salad recipes can vary widely. In the South, for instance, potato salads often include mustard or hard-boiled eggs, while the All-American Loaded Baked Potato Salad incorporates ingredients like sour cream, crispy bacon, and shredded cheddar cheeseingredients that reflect the influence of the loaded baked potato, a dish thats beloved in many parts of the country. Some variations might also feature ranch dressing or green onions, with some opting to add extra vegetables like celery or bell peppers to the mix. The adaptability of this recipe allows for regional and personal twists, making it a versatile dish for all tastes.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

The All-American Loaded Baked Potato Salad stands out from traditional potato salads due to its combination of classic potato salad elements (such as boiled potatoes and a creamy dressing) with the hearty toppings of a loaded baked potato. Unlike traditional potato salads, which often rely on mayonnaise or mustard as their base, this recipe uses sour cream and creamy salad dressing to mimic the indulgent toppings found on baked potatoes. The addition of bacon bits, cheese, and chives creates a unique flavor profile that elevates it beyond the standard potato salad, offering a richer, more satisfying dish.

Where It Is Typically Served

This dish is a favorite at summer barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings. Its rich and creamy texture makes it a perfect side dish to complement grilled meats, such as burgers, steaks, and chicken. Its also a popular choice for holiday meals, especially during the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and Labor Day celebrations. Due to its hearty nature, it pairs well with dishes that have a smoky or savory profile, such as ribs or grilled sausages. The All-American Loaded Baked Potato Salad is typically served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.

Interesting Facts

Many people swear by using real bacon rather than store-bought bacon bits, claiming it adds a much richer flavor.
The recipe's combination of sour cream, cheese, and bacon is reminiscent of a classic loaded baked potato, which was a staple of American comfort food in the 20th century.
Some people enhance the salad by adding extra ingredients like diced pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or a sprinkle of paprika to give the dish a unique twist.
The dish is often made in large quantities, making it a great option for feeding a crowd, and is a frequent hit at both casual gatherings and formal dinners.

FAQ about All-American Loaded Baked Potato Salad Recipe

Store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it is properly sealed to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead of time. In fact, letting it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours (or overnight) helps the flavors meld together for a tastier result.

It's not recommended to freeze this salad because the potatoes and creamy dressing may change in texture once thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.

You can substitute Miracle Whip with mayonnaise or a lighter version of mayonnaise, depending on your preference. Some people also use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.

To avoid mushy potatoes, make sure you don't overcook them. Cook the potatoes until just tender (about 15 minutes) and immediately cool them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Also, let them cool completely before mixing with the dressing.

Absolutely! You can customize the salad by adding ingredients like chopped red onions, jalapeños, or even more vegetables. Some people also like to add ranch seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor.

This salad is best served cold, so it's not recommended to reheat it. However, if you must, do so gently in the microwave at a low setting. Be aware that the creamy texture may change slightly after reheating.

Yes, you can omit the bacon or substitute it with a vegetarian option like crispy tofu or tempeh for a meatless version. The flavor may change, but it will still be delicious!

Comments

Catherine King

01/26/2025 05:03:03 PM

Prepare your dressing in advance and refrigerate it while you prepare the rest of your dish - that extra time allows the flavors to blend perfectly. Mixing real mayonnaise and sour cream creates a delicious flavor combination, just ensure your potatoes are completely cooled before adding them in, otherwise you'll end up with a mushy potato salad. This recipe is truly scrumptious. And don't opt for bacon bits, fry up your own bacon for a much tastier result!

Jerry Green

05/20/2025 10:33:16 AM

Great recipe! I took the advice from reviews and used authentic bacon. This recipe is definitely worth keeping!

Donna Nguyen

11/18/2023 09:52:02 AM

I tried this recipe and it was a big hit, but I customized it to suit my taste. I used real mayonnaise, cooked crispy bacon, and added a little bacon grease to the dressing for extra flavor. I also mixed in some ranch seasoning for an extra kick. Every time I make this, people beg me for the recipe and there are never any leftovers. I always make a double or triple batch because it's so popular!

Diane Robinson

05/28/2025 08:24:23 AM

Delicious, my new favorite recipe! I substituted Avocado Mayo and Greek (Plain) Yogurt for the sour cream, and it turned out amazing.

Benjamin Jackson

03/26/2025 02:51:19 AM

Oh my goodness! This dish is incredibly tasty. I used to hesitate because I thought it would be hard to make, but it's actually very simple. It's so tempting to dig in right away, but resist the urge. Let it sit for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Your taste buds will thank you! I boiled the potatoes whole, let them cool down, and then peeled and cut them. This trick, passed down from my grandmother, is key to achieving perfectly firm yet tender potatoes.

Emma Anderson

08/04/2022 03:37:06 AM

I'm not a big fan of Miracle Whip, so we prefer using Hellmann's mayonnaise and fresh chives that just keep on spreading! This has become one of our all-time favorite side dishes.

Alexander Phillips

09/15/2024 03:19:11 AM

This dish was excellent! I substituted light sour cream and mayo since that's what I always buy. During dinner, my adult son was visiting and he remarked, "Mom, don't lose that recipe, it's a winner." We both agreed that it truly resembled a loaded baked potato. Will definitely be making this again and again!

Kenneth Mitchell

10/18/2023 11:29:56 PM

Wow! This dish is incredibly delicious. It's so decadent and full of flavor. I'll definitely be making this for all future holiday gatherings. I opted for mayonnaise instead of Miracle Whip (which I've never really liked), and it turned out absolutely tasty!

Kimberly Harris

08/27/2022 09:41:51 PM

Upon spotting Miracle Whip in the ingredient list, I immediately questioned the recipe's credibility. Opting for real mayo instead, I proceeded with the rest of the instructions. The end result was delightful, and I decided to throw in extra bacon for good measure. Can one ever have too much bacon? I think not.

Steven Moore

05/09/2023 01:11:33 AM

This recipe is fantastic. It was a hit with everyone. I will definitely recommend it and we'll be making it again.

Mary Campbell

08/28/2024 04:08:10 AM

This dish has become a staple for me every summer. I enjoy incorporating green onions and taking the reviewer's suggestion to use mayonnaise instead of Miracle Whip.

Nancy Martin

12/18/2023 11:59:28 AM

I absolutely adored the taste of this recipe. I followed all the ingredients as listed and wouldn't make any changes. Thanks for sharing!

Joshua Phillips

03/14/2025 05:55:44 PM

I'm not a fan of Miracle Whip, so I used mayonnaise as a substitute... and it was delicious!

Donna Sanchez

02/15/2025 02:53:50 AM

I used to not be a fan of Miracle Whip, but I always have it on hand for my husband. I decided to give this recipe a try based on the positive reviews, and I was pleasantly surprised! It turned out to be absolutely delicious. This will be my go-to potato salad recipe from now on. I also took the advice of another reviewer and added bread and butter pickles, which added a fantastic flavor. Thanks for sharing this fantastic recipe!

Donna Edwards

04/26/2025 11:40:37 AM

I usually don't enjoy Miracle Whip, but I absolutely loved it in this salad! This potato salad has now become my go-to recipe.

Kelly Campbell

05/28/2025 01:47:50 AM

This dish was amazing! I enhanced the flavor by adding seasonings to the boiling water while cooking the potatoes. Additionally, I included red onions and extra seasonings after the dish was completed.

Nicholas Baker

01/21/2025 04:15:56 AM

I prepared this dish for a BBQ gathering with family and friends, and it was a big hit!

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