As I was sifting through my recipe box, a craving hit me for something totally satisfying yet surprisingly easy to whip up. Enter the Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad with Creamy Dijon Dressing. This dish brings the best of both worlds: hearty comfort food and a palate-pleasing twist. Imagine tender red potatoes, perfectly cooked and combined with rich sour cream, zesty dill pickles, and crispy bacon that gives every bite a delightful crunch. Not only does this loaded potato salad serve as a creamy, gluten-free side that can elevate any BBQ or summer picnic, but it’s also a fantastic make-ahead option. With minimal prep time and endless customization possibilities, you’ll love how it adapts to fit any gathering. Ready to dig into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!
Why Choose This Loaded Potato Salad?
Simplicity, with just a few steps, you can create a dish that impresses everyone at your gathering. Loaded with flavor, the combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and zesty pickles elevates the classic potato salad to gourmet heights. Customizable, feel free to switch ingredients based on your preferences—substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier spin or add jalapeños for a spicy kick. Perfect for potlucks, this dish is gluten-free, making it a hit for diverse diets. Make-ahead friendly, prepare it in advance so you can focus on enjoying your time with loved ones. Your barbecue guests will be raving about this salad long after the last bite!
Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded Ingredients
• Get ready to savor every bite!
For the Salad
- Red Potatoes – Tender and creamy, they hold their shape perfectly when cooked.
- Bacon – The secret to that savory crunch; use thick-cut for the best texture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Rich and sharp; feel free to swap for gouda or Monterey jack!
- Dill Pickles – They add zest and crunch, perfectly balancing the creaminess.
- Red Onion – Brings a sharp bite; soak in cold water if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – A pop of freshness and color completes this dish.
For the Creamy Dressing
- Mayonnaise – Provides that luxurious creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
- Sour Cream – Adds a tangy depth; don’t skip it for extra creaminess!
- Dijon Mustard – For a delightful tang; adjust to your taste for more or less kick.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Enhances flavors and adds balance to the richness.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; taste as you go!
Garnishes (Optional)
- Chives/Green Onions – Adds a fresh, colorful touch just before serving.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by thoroughly washing 2 pounds of red potatoes. Cube them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large pot. Cover the potatoes with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender yet firm. Drain and allow them to cool at room temperature.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing will provide the rich, tangy base for your Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded, enhancing its flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once your potatoes have cooled, gently fold them into the creamy dressing mixture. Add ½ cup of chopped red onion, 6 slices of crumbled bacon, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley, and ½ cup of diced dill pickles. Stir everything together carefully, ensuring that each potato piece is coated evenly without breaking them apart.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
Transfer the loaded potato salad to a large serving bowl or dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling period allows the flavors of the Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded to meld together, enhancing the overall taste and ensuring it’s refreshingly cool when served.
Step 5: Serve the Salad
When you’re ready to serve, remove the potato salad from the fridge. If desired, garnish with finely chopped chives or green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve the salad cold within 1-4 hours for the best taste and texture, making your gathering a hit with this delightful dish!
Expert Tips for Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded
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Choose Quality Potatoes: Use fresh, firm red potatoes that hold their shape during cooking, ensuring a pleasing texture in your Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on those potatoes! Cook them just until fork-tender to maintain a nice bite; overcooked potatoes can lead to a mushy salad.
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Chill Thoughtfully: Refrigerate your salad for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but avoid leaving it too long, as potatoes can absorb excess moisture.
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Customize Wisely: If you want to spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños. Just remember, start with a little and adjust to your heat preference!
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Keep Dressing Fresh: If making ahead, set aside some dressing to refresh the salad just before serving. This keeps it creamy and vibrant!
Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded Variations
Feel free to personalize this loaded potato salad with delicious twists that cater to your tastes and dietary needs!
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Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist that doesn’t compromise creaminess.
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Blue Cheese: Introduce crumbled blue cheese for a bold flavor punch that harmonizes beautifully with creamy potatoes.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for a delightful heat that wakes up your taste buds.
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Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or basil to enhance aromatic flavors, elevating your salad even further.
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Bacon-Free Option: Skip the bacon and substitute with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly alternative that still offers fantastic texture.
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Vegan Swap: Exchange yogurt and mayo for a vegan alternative like cashew cream for a rich, plant-based taste.
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Crunchy Addition: Mix in some chopped celery or bell peppers for an extra crunchy texture that contrasts the creaminess splendidly.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked cheddar instead of regular cheddar to impart a delightful smoky depth that adds character to each bite.
These variations invite you to create a unique masterpiece that matches your beloved flavors. For even more delicious ideas, consider trying alongside fresh grilled meats or a tangy coleslaw. Happy cooking!
What to Serve with Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad?
Imagine a delightful gathering filled with laughter, good company, and a spread of comforting flavors awaiting you.
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Grilled Steak: The classic pairing! Juicy, charred steak enhances the creamy potato salad, creating a satisfying meal harmony.
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BBQ Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone tender ribs provide a smoky flavor that balances the richness of the salad beautifully.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side dish adds vibrant freshness that cuts through the creaminess, making every bite exciting.
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Baked Beans: The sweet and savory notes of baked beans complement the salty crispiness of the bacon in the salad.
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Cornbread: Warm, fluffy cornbread offers a slightly sweet touch, perfect for soaking up any leftovers of that delicious creamy dressing.
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Iced Tea: Refreshing and slightly sweet, iced tea works wonderfully to cleanse the palate while enjoying this hearty meal.
For dessert, consider finishing off with a light, fruity option, like a berry tart, which will perfectly contrast the rich flavors of your steakhouse potato salad.
How to Store and Freeze Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded
Fridge: Store the loaded potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its flavor and texture.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. To prevent freezer burn, place it in a well-sealed freezer bag, removing excess air.
Reheating: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. For a refreshing taste, you may want to stir in some additional dressing after thawing to revive its creamy goodness.
Tip: Remember that the Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded is best served fresh, ideally within a few hours of preparation, to preserve its delightful creamy texture and all the delicious flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients together, except for the garnishes. Just be sure to keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and avoid moisture absorption by the potatoes. Before serving, add any remaining dressing if you like it creamier and sprinkle with freshly chopped chives or green onions for that vibrant touch. When stored properly, this potato salad remains just as delicious, letting you enjoy delightful, stress-free gatherings without the last-minute rush on busy weeknights!
Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for this salad?
I recommend using red potatoes for your Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded because they maintain their shape well and offer a creamy texture that’s perfect for salads. Look for firm potatoes without dark spots or blemishes for the best results.
How long can I store the potato salad in the fridge?
Your loaded potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving to recombine the ingredients, as they may separate slightly during storage.
Can I freeze the potato salad?
Yes, you can freeze the Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded! To do so, place it in a well-sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Enjoy it within 1 month for the best flavor, and make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What should I do if my potatoes are mushy after cooking?
It happens to the best of us! If your potatoes turned out mushy, try using larger chunks next time and keep a close watch during cooking. Additionally, add less dressing and fold gently to minimize breaking up the potatoes. This way, you’ll have a firmer potato salad in the end.
Is this potato salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! The Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded is naturally gluten-free, given that the main ingredients do not contain gluten. However, always check labels on processed ingredients, like mayonnaise, to ensure they’re gluten-free.
Can I customize the recipe to be vegetarian?
Very! You can easily make this potato salad vegetarian by omitting the bacon. For added flavor, consider substituting with roasted vegetables or crumbled feta cheese, which will add a delightful twist while keeping it rich and satisfying.
Savory Steakhouse Potato Salad Loaded with Creamy Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash 2 pounds of red potatoes, cube them, cover with cold water, add salt, boil for 10-15 minutes or until fork-tender, then drain and cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Fold the cooled potatoes into the dressing, add 1/2 cup chopped onion, 6 slices crumbled bacon, 1 cup cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup parsley, and 1/2 cup diced pickles. Stir gently.
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve cold, garnished with chives or green onions if desired.
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