This fun potato salad is loaded with crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and colorful veggies. It’s the ultimate side dish for any gathering—tasty and super easy to make!
Honestly, what’s better than bacon in potato salad? I always add a bit more because, let’s face it, there’s no such thing as too much bacon! 🥓
I love making this salad ahead of time. The flavors get better as it sits in the fridge! Serve it chilled, and it’s a hit at summer picnics or BBQs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: I recommend red potatoes since they hold their shape well after cooking. If they aren’t available, you can use Yukon Gold or new potatoes instead. Both options are creamy and delicious!
Bacon: Bacon adds a crunchy, smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier version, turkey bacon works fine too. Alternatively, you can skip it for a vegetarian take and add some extra veggies for texture.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create the creamy base. Instead of traditional mayo, try Greek yogurt for a lighter option. You could also use vegan mayo or cashew cream if you want a dairy-free salad.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is key for flavor! You can use store-bought ranch seasoning or make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. It’s easy and really freshens the taste!
How Do I Cook Potatoes for a Perfect Salad?
Cooking potatoes properly is crucial for this salad. Follow these simple steps to get soft potatoes without making them mushy:
- Chop the potatoes into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Place them in cold water before heating. This prevents uneven cooking.
- Once the water boils, cook for about 10-12 minutes until just tender, but not falling apart. Test with a fork.
- After draining, let them cool before mixing to keep the salad from becoming watery.
Keeping an eye on these details will help you make a fantastic potato salad that everyone will love!
Easy Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 pounds red potatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 30 minutes for preparation and cooking, plus an additional hour for chilling. So, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes total before serving this delicious potato salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by placing the chopped red potatoes in a large pot and covering them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then cook the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork—this will take about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool in the colander.
2. Fry the Bacon:
While the potatoes are cooking, it’s bacon time! In a skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon until it becomes nice and crispy. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease. Once it has cooled down, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, and white vinegar. Whisk these together until it’s smooth and well blended. This is the creamy goodness that will bring your potato salad to life!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, take the cooled potatoes, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions and add them to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together. Be careful not to mash the potatoes; you want them to remain chunky and delicious!
5. Season and Chill:
Taste your potato salad and add salt and pepper if needed. Once seasoned, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the potato salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Garnish with additional chopped green onions for that extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your loaded bacon ranch potato salad — it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ: Easy Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are ideal for their texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or new potatoes. Just ensure they are cut into uniform pieces to cook evenly.
Can I Make This Potato Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This potato salad tastes even better after chilling. You can prepare it a day in advance, just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a quick stir to refresh the flavors.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you notice it’s getting a little thick, just stir in a splash of milk or extra sour cream to loosen it up.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, you can leave out the bacon entirely or replace it with crispy fried shallots orPlant-based bacon or mushrooms. They will add an interesting texture and flavor while keeping the dish hearty!
