Strolling through the bustling streets of a charming town, the aroma of grilled meats and smoky barbecue filled the air, beckoning me toward a lively gathering. It was then that I discovered the delightful joy of a good steakhouse potato salad. This Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad captures that essence, bringing a creamy and savory twist to the classic dish we all know and love. Soft red potatoes create the perfect base, while crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese add layers of deliciousness. This recipe isn’t just about taste; it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it ideal for summer BBQs, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. Are you ready to elevate your side dish game?
Why is this potato salad a game-changer?
Simplicity: This Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep and just a few basic ingredients to create a flavor-packed dish.
Savory Bliss: A delightful mix of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy dijon dressing makes each bite a true flavor explosion, reminiscent of your favorite steakhouse meals.
Versatile: With suggestions for ingredient substitutions, this recipe can easily cater to dietary preferences, whether you want to swap in Greek yogurt or go vegetarian by omitting bacon.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for summer gatherings, this potato salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or serves as a standout centerpiece at potlucks alongside Coleslaw or Baked Beans.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it a few hours in advance to save time on busy days—just keep it fresh in the fridge until it’s time to serve!
Steakhouse Potato Salad Ingredients
• Create a deliciously creamy dish with these key flavors!
For the Salad
- Red Potatoes – Their firm texture holds up beautifully, making them ideal for a traditional potato salad.
- Mayonnaise – Adds a rich, creamy base that can be lightened with Greek yogurt if desired.
- Sour Cream – Provides a tangy flavor that enhances the creaminess of the salad; Greek yogurt is a great substitute.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the flavors and balances the richness; it’s a must for this Steakhouse Potato Salad.
- Dijon Mustard – Infuses a zesty kick that elevates the overall taste; do not skip this ingredient!
- Red Onion – Adds a satisfying crunch and sharp flavor, or replace with green onions for a milder profile.
- Bacon – Introduces savory, crispy elements; omit for a vegetarian option or swap for smoked tempeh.
- Cheddar Cheese – Offers a rich, sharp flavor that can be substituted with gouda, Monterey jack, or your favorite cheese.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a fresh pop of color; feel free to use other herbs as a garnish.
- Dill Pickles – Contributes a tangy crunch; you can use relishes for a different twist.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall taste; adjust to your liking.
Optional Garnish
- Chopped Chives or Green Onions – Fresh and colorful accents for that extra touch just before serving.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad
Step 1: Cook Potatoes
Start by washing and cubing around 2 pounds of red potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring the pot to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, cooking the potatoes for 10-15 minutes until they are fork-tender. Once done, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool to room temperature before mixing with the dressing.
Step 2: Prepare Dressing
In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard. Whisk the ingredients vigorously until the mixture is creamy and well combined, creating a flavorful base for your Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired, as this dressing enhances the salad’s overall flavor.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the potatoes have cooled, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add ½ cup of chopped red onion, 6 strips of crumbled crispy bacon, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley, and ½ cup of chopped dill pickles. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently fold the mixture together until all ingredients are evenly coated and thoroughly mixed.
Step 4: Chill Salad
After combining all the ingredients for the Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. For optimal texture and taste, aim to serve the salad within 1-4 hours, giving you time to prep other dishes for your gathering.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Just before serving, uncover the salad and give it a gentle stir. For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped chives or green onions on top of the potato salad. This final addition not only brings vibrant color but also elevates the overall presentation. Now your delicious Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad is ready to impress your family and friends!
Expert Tips for Steakhouse Potato Salad
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Cool Potatoes Properly: Let the cooked potatoes reach room temperature before adding the dressing to avoid a mushy texture.
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Taste Test the Dressing: Adjust seasoning and tanginess according to your palate—this refined dressing elevates the flavor profile of the steakhouse potato salad.
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Reserve Dressing: If making ahead, consider holding back a bit of the dressing to add just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
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Chill Wisely: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, but serve within 1-4 hours to maintain the ideal texture and prevent excessive moisture absorption.
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Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize by adding jalapeños or swapping ingredients, keeping the focus on making your steakhouse potato salad uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the potatoes and dressing separately up to 24 hours in advance—just cook and cool the potatoes, and mix the dressing without combining them until you are ready to serve. Store both components in the refrigerator in airtight containers. To prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy, ensure they are completely cooled before mixing in the dressing. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine the potatoes with the other ingredients, refresh with reserved dressing if needed, and garnish with chives for that fresh effect. With these make-ahead tips, your steakhouse potato salad will taste just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy days!
Storage Tips for Steakhouse Potato Salad
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Fridge: Store your loaded steakhouse potato salad in an airtight container for up to 4 hours. This keeps it fresh, ensuring that the flavors stay vibrant and the potatoes maintain their perfect texture.
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Make-Ahead: If you plan to prepare the salad in advance, assemble it a few hours prior to serving, but refrigerate it. For the best taste, aim to serve it within 1-4 hours after chilling.
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Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for steakhouse potato salad, as the texture of the potatoes and dressing may become unappetizing once thawed.
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Reheating: If you have leftovers, enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or let them come to room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating to maintain the ideal creamy consistency.
Steakhouse Potato Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative as you make this delectable dish your own, bringing in flavors that excite your palate.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt for a light yet creamy version.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to spice things up. This gives it an exciting twang that will delight those who enjoy a fiery kick.
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Gourmet Twist: Use crumbled blue cheese mixed with Worcestershire sauce for that quintessential steakhouse flavor; it’s a savory addition that takes this salad to a whole new level!
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Veggie Delight: Omit the bacon entirely for a delicious vegetarian option. You can replace it with roasted chickpeas for added texture and flavor.
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Herb Extra: Boost freshness by mixing in freshly chopped dill, basil, or cilantro. This quick addition adds brightness and a fragrant aroma you’ll love.
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Cheese Swap: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, consider using gouda or pepper jack for a different yet delightful flavor profile.
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Pickle Perfection: Try adding sweet relish instead of dill pickles for a tangy, sweet twist. It will bring a delightful contrast to the salad’s creaminess.
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Crunchy Texture: Toss in some chopped celery or bell peppers for an added crunch that enhances the overall texture and keeps things interesting.
For more vibrant side dish ideas that will impress guests, consider trying out a Broccoli Salad Meal or an Italian Pasta Salad to accompany your steakhouse potato salad!
What to Serve with Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad
Bring your summer gatherings to life with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of this creamy and savory dish!
- Grilled Steak: Juicy and tender steak perfectly complements the rich flavors of the potato salad, creating a classic BBQ experience.
- BBQ Chicken: The smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy elements of the loaded potato salad.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy and refreshing side adds a crisp contrast, balancing the creaminess of the potato salad alongside your main dish.
- Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread offers a comforting textural contrast and a delightful sweetness that rounds out the meal.
- Baked Beans: Their hearty flavor and sweetness work harmoniously with the savory notes of the loaded steakhouse potato salad, enhancing your plate.
- Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add a nutritious, colorful element that brightens your gathering while complementing the rich salad.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing, light fruit salad offers a sweet, juicy counterpoint to the heavy, creamy dish, cleansing the palate with each bite.
- Iced Tea: A cool glass of iced tea adds a refreshing element to your plate, balancing the rich flavors of the loaded steakhouse potato salad.
- Lemonade: This tangy drink, with its bright citrus notes, uplifts the dinner experience, contrasting beautifully with the savory salad.
Let these delightful options elevate your meal and create memorable moments with friends and family!
Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe FAQs
Can I use any type of potato for the salad?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are ideal for their firm texture and ability to hold shape, you can substitute them with Yukon Gold or new potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of potato you choose.
How should I store leftover potato salad?
To keep your loaded steakhouse potato salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. Make sure it’s well covered to avoid any odors from other foods affecting its flavor.
Can I freeze steakhouse potato salad?
I do not recommend freezing steakhouse potato salad due to the nature of the ingredients; once thawed, the potatoes may become mushy, and the creamy dressing could separate. Instead, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, try to consume them cold within a few hours for the best experience.
What if my dressing is too thick?
If your dressing turns out thicker than desired, you can thin it out by whisking in a tablespoon or two of cold water or additional apple cider vinegar until you reach your preferred consistency. This will help ensure that the dressing is creamy yet spreadable across your potato salad. It’s all about achieving that perfect texture!
Is this potato salad suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, this can be a gluten-free dish if you ensure that all ingredients (like mayonnaise and mustard) are labeled gluten-free. If you have specific allergies — such as to dairy — consider substituting sour cream and mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative to make this dish more accommodating.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
To create a lighter version of Loaded Steakhouse Potato Salad, I recommend substituting Greek yogurt for both the sour cream and mayonnaise. This swaps out some of the calories while maintaining a creamy texture and adds a nice tang to the flavor profile. Additionally, reducing the amount of cheese or bacon can further lighten the dish while still keeping it wholesome and delicious.
Savory Steakhouse Potato Salad Your New BBQ Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by washing and cubing around 2 pounds of red potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and cool.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard. Whisk until creamy and well combined.
- Transfer cooled potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add ½ cup of chopped red onion, 6 strips of crumbled crispy bacon, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley, and ½ cup of chopped dill pickles. Pour the dressing over and fold gently.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir gently and garnish with chopped chives or green onions for freshness.
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