Name: Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded with Flavor and Crunch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Red Potatoes (Washed and cubed); 1 cup Mayonnaise (Can substitute with Greek yogurt); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Can substitute with Greek yogurt); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (Can substitute with lemon juice); 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (Can use yellow mustard); 1 small Red Onion (Finely chopped); 6 slices Crispy Bacon (Crumbled; omit for vegetarian option); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Can use gouda or Monterey jack); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped); 1/2 cup Dill Pickles (Chopped; can substitute with sweet pickles); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1/4 cup Chopped Chives (For garnish); 1/2 cup Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (Optional for extra crunch); 1/4 cup Diced Jalapeños (Optional for spice)

At our last barbecue, someone whispered, “This potato salad tastes like it came from a fancy steakhouse!” As I watched everyone gather around the bowl, devouring my Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride. With its creamy blend of spices, crunchy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, this dish is not just a side; it’s a showstopper! The best part? It’s a breeze to prepare and the perfect excuse to customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you choose to entertain or just want a satisfying meal at home, this gluten-free recipe promises to bring a smile to your face and flavor to your table. Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself to a deliciously hearty dish? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Potato Salad So Special?

Unique Flavors: This Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad combines tantalizing flavors from creamy mayonnaise and tangy Dijon mustard, making every bite a delight.
Customizable Options: Feel free to swap ingredients, whether you prefer Greek yogurt over sour cream or want to add jalapeños for a kick.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: It’s the talk of any summer BBQ, ensuring your guests keep coming back for seconds! Perfect alongside grilled meats like steak or burgers.
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of steps, you’ll have a stunning dish that’s ready in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy the company.
Gluten-Free Potential: Use gluten-free mayonnaise, and you can cater to a wider audience, making it great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Transform your next meal into something memorable with this delicious recipe! Try it along with other exciting dishes like Ground Beef Potato or Cheesy Garlic Potato.

Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded Ingredients

For the Salad:
• Red Potatoes – Perfectly creamy and holds shape, making them the ideal choice for potato salad.
• Mayonnaise – Adds richness; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
• Sour Cream – Enhances the salad’s creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides tang; you can use lemon juice for a zesty refresh.
• Dijon Mustard – Injects a zesty kick; yellow mustard is a great milder alternative.
• Red Onion – Adds sweetness and crunch; use green onions for a fresher, milder option.
• Crispy Bacon – Delivers delightful crunch and savory taste; omit for a vegetarian version or use turkey bacon for fewer calories.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Infuses sharpness into every bite; gouda or Monterey jack can be used instead for a different flavor profile.
• Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish with color and freshness; cilantro is a great alternative if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Dill Pickles – Contributes that perfect briny flavor; feel free to swap for sweet pickles if preferred.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste as you go.
• Chopped Chives or Green Onions (Garnish) – Offers a fresh finishing touch; substitute with your favorite herbs like dill or basil.

For Added Texture:
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Consider adding for an extra crunch that complements the salad beautifully.
• Diced Jalapeños – For a fiery twist, mix in some diced jalapeños to give your steakhouse potato salad a spicy kick.

This Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded with flavor is sure to impress at your next gathering or BBQ!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Begin by washing and cubing the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot and cover them completely with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and allow them to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This dressing is what makes the Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded stand out, so make sure it’s well-mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if desired, ensuring a zesty flavor profile.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Once your potatoes have cooled, gently fold them into the dressing along with the finely chopped red onion, crumbled crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, freshly chopped parsley, and dill pickles. Stir carefully to coat the potatoes without mashing them. The combination of these ingredients brings the steakhouse flavors to life in your potato salad.

Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the loaded potato salad for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Aim to serve the salad within 1-4 hours for the best texture. Before serving, garnish with chopped chives for that perfect fresh finish.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Creation
Bring the salad to the table and watch as guests thrill at this beautiful, creamy dish. The loaded steakhouse potato salad is ideal alongside grilled meats or at potlucks. Feel free to customize it further with your favorite ingredients to make it your own!

Make Ahead Options

These Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad can be a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can prepare the salad components in advance, storing the cooked and cooled potatoes, dressing, and any mix-ins separately up to 24 hours ahead. Just refrigerate each component to maintain their texture and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything, and consider leaving out a little dressing to refresh the salad if needed, ensuring it stays creamy and delicious. Finish with your garnishes just before serving to impress your guests with fresh flavors. This strategy not only saves you time but allows the flavors to meld perfectly, making your potato salad just as delightful!

Variations & Substitutions for Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded

Feel free to adjust this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs, creating a personalized potato salad masterpiece!

Greek Yogurt: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier twist. It maintains that creamy texture while packing a protein punch.
Yellow Mustard: Swap Dijon for yellow mustard if you prefer a milder flavor. This simple change creates a whole new personality for your salad.
Green Onions: Instead of red onion, use green onions for a more subtle, fresh taste. They add a wonderful pop of color and flavor without being overwhelming.
Turkey Bacon: For a healthier version, substitute crispy bacon with turkey bacon. It still offers that satisfying crunch without the extra calories!
Jalapeños: For those who love a kick, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. The spice elevates the dish, giving it an exciting edge.
Crumbled Blue Cheese: Incorporate crumbled blue cheese for a bold flavor boost. The tanginess pairs wonderfully with the creamy elements of the salad.
Sweet Pickles: If you enjoy a sweeter taste, replace dill pickles with sweet pickles. This swap will give you a delightful contrast to the savory components.
Herb Swap: Change up fresh parsley for cilantro or basil for a different herbal note. Each herb brings its own unique flavor to the dish.

You could also explore serving this alongside other delicious options like Hamburger Potato Casserole or enjoy it with classic sides like Potato Taco Bowls. Happy cooking!

Storage Tips for Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. However, keep in mind that the salad may lose some of its creaminess and texture over time.

Covering: Always cover the potato salad tightly with plastic wrap or a lid before refrigerating to prevent the absorption of odors from other foods.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for steakhouse potato salad loaded, as the creamy ingredients can separate upon thawing, compromising texture.

Refreshing: If you’ve made the salad ahead, toss in a little reserved dressing before serving to restore creaminess and flavor.

Expert Tips for Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded

Choose the Right Potatoes: Use red potatoes for creaminess and shape retention. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they tend to become mushy in salads.

Perfect Dressing Balance: Ensure your dressing has a creamy and tangy balance. Taste and adjust flavors, especially with the Dijon mustard, to suit your preference.

Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to meld flavors. Serving too soon may result in a less developed taste.

Crispy Bacon Tip: For maximum crunch, add crispy bacon just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy in the dressing.

Experiment with Customizations: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite ingredients! Try different cheeses or add ingredients like jalapeños for a spicy twist to your steakhouse potato salad loaded.

Bite-Sized Pieces: Cut your potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easier eating. This ensures everyone enjoys the creaminess with each forkful.

What to Serve with Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad

Enjoy a perfect summer meal by pairing this delightful side with complementary dishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Grilled Steak: The robust, smoky flavors of a perfectly grilled steak elevate your potato salad experience, making it a match made in heaven.
BBQ Ribs: Tender, juicy BBQ ribs pair beautifully with the creamy texture of the potato salad, balancing richness with tangy goodness.
Coleslaw: A crisp, refreshing coleslaw introduces a crunchy contrast that brightens the dish, providing a lively crunch alongside creamy bites.
Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread offers a delightful sweetness that harmonizes with the savory elements of the potato salad.
Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans contribute a sweet and smoky allure that complements the robust flavors of the loaded steakhouse potato salad.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful, charred veggies add a smoky depth and nutritious counterpoint, enhancing the meal’s freshness and vitality.
Chilled White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc lightens the palate and complements the dish’s creamy richness, making every bite even better.
Key Lime Pie: For dessert, this tangy and sweet pie offers a refreshing finish that perfectly contrasts the hearty flavors of the potato salad.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Offering a cool, refreshing sip, either drink balances the flavors and enhances the overall meal experience.
Stuffed Peppers: Filled with grains, beans, or proteins, these vibrant, colorful peppers provide a delightful bite that works wonderfully alongside any BBQ spread.

Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect red potatoes for this salad?
Absolutely! Look for firm, smooth red potatoes without any dark spots or eyes. The potatoes should feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant red color. Avoid anyone that feels mushy or has blemishes, as they can affect the texture of your salad.

What is the best way to store leftover steakhouse potato salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Remember, the salad may lose some creaminess after a day, so it’s best enjoyed fresh! Always cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to keep out any odors from other foods.

Can I freeze leftover loaded steakhouse potato salad?
Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended for this steakhouse potato salad loaded, as the creamy ingredients like mayonnaise and sour cream can separate and turn watery when thawed. Stick to refrigerating instead; it’s the best way to preserve its delightful texture!

What should I do if my potato salad appears too dry or thick after refrigerating?
No worries! If you find your salad is a bit dry after chilling, simply mix in a splash of milk or a bit of the reserved dressing you set aside while preparing. This will help rejuvenate the creaminess. Stir gently to avoid mashing the potatoes, and adjust to your desired consistency.

Is this loaded potato salad gluten-free?
Yes! The loaded steakhouse potato salad can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free mayonnaise. Always check the labels to ensure that all ingredients conform to your dietary needs, making this dish a great option for various diets.

Can I add or substitute ingredients to this recipe?
Very much! This recipe is all about customization. You can easily swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt, add diced jalapeños for extra heat, or even replace the bacon with smoked tempeh for a delightful vegetarian twist. Make it your own and enjoy every bite!