Crispy Loaded Potato Salad: A Game-Changing Twist on the Classic Side Dish

This crispy potato salad transforms the traditional recipe with perfectly roasted potatoes, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing that will make it your new go-to side dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Loaded Potato Salad

Say goodbye to mushy potato salad! This version features golden, crispy-edged potatoes that maintain their texture even after mixing with the creamy dressing. The combination of warm potatoes with cool, tangy sauce creates an irresistible temperature contrast. Plus, it’s loaded with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh herbs that elevate this dish from a simple side to the star of your table.

Crispy Loaded Potato Salad Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes (red or yellow)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tools Used to Make Crispy Loaded Potato Salad

• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula or wooden spoon

How to Make Crispy Loaded Potato Salad

1. Prepare the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash the potatoes and cut them into ¾-inch chunks. For extra crispiness, don’t peel them!
2. Season and roast: In a large bowl, toss the potato chunks with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. Make the dressing: While the potatoes roast, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Combine ingredients: Allow the roasted potatoes to cool for about 10 minutes. In a large bowl, gently toss them with the dressing, crispy bacon bits, red onion, cheddar cheese, and most of the green onions and dill (save some for garnish).
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining green onions and dill. Serve warm or at room temperature for maximum flavor and crispiness.

Variations of Crispy Loaded Potato Salad

• Loaded Baked Potato Style: Add sour cream and extra cheese on top before serving.
• Spicy Version: Mix in diced jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Mediterranean Twist: Swap the bacon for olives and feta cheese, and add sun-dried tomatoes.
• Ranch Lovers: Use ranch dressing instead of the sour cream/mayo mixture.
• Herb Garden: Add a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and tarragon.

Serving Crispy Potato Salad

This potato salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats like crispy buttermilk fried chicken or burgers. For a complete meal, serve alongside a green salad or roasted vegetables. While it’s delicious warm, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just know the potatoes will lose some crispiness over time. To revive leftovers, let them come to room temperature before serving or quickly warm in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make crispy potato salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, prepare the components separately. Roast the potatoes and make the dressing up to a day ahead, then combine everything 30 minutes before serving to maintain the crispy texture.

What kind of potatoes work best for crispy potato salad?

Baby potatoes (red or yellow) work best as they hold their shape well and get crispy edges when roasted. Yukon Golds are also excellent.

Is this potato salad served hot or cold?

This salad is best served warm or at room temperature to maintain the crispy texture of the potatoes. However, it’s still delicious cold from the refrigerator.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the sour cream with dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based cheese alternative or omit the cheese entirely.

Final Thoughts

This crispy potato salad reinvents a classic dish with irresistible textures and bold flavors. Try it at your next gathering and watch it disappear! What other variations would you create with your favorite toppings?

More Recipes to Try!

• Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
• Chicken Rice Casserole
• Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble
• California Turkey Club Wraps
• Easy Mediterranean Steak Bowls
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Potato Salad
• BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
• Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf
• Easy Asian Cucumber Salad