Loaded Potato Salad

Can you use different kinds of potatoes to make loaded potato salad?

Definitely. We recommend subbing in any type of waxy potato with a firm texture that will hold its shape when cooked, such as Yukon Gold or fingerlings. Avoid russet potatoes, as these are likely to soften too much when cooked. The goal is a fabulous potato salad, not mashed potatoes! Learn more about the different types of potatoes so you know when to use each kind.

How else can you cook the bacon for loaded potato salad?

Aside from cooking bacon in a skillet, you can make bacon in the oven, which is our preferred method. Just save 3 tablespoons of drippings to add to the potatoes. Check out our guide to how to bake bacon so you know just how to do it.

How can you make loaded potato salad your own?

You can make this recipe your own by playing with the ingredients. Skip the Caesar and just use ranch dressing, or reduce the mayo and increase the sour cream. Use a grainy mustard instead of Dijon. For a little zip, stir in diced dill pickles. Add some zing with chopped radishes. And don’t forget the hard-boiled eggs!

What do you serve with loaded potato salad?

You can serve loaded potato salad with so many dishes! Our favorite pairings include classic hamburgers, roasted chicken and grilled sausages. Then round out the meal with some baked beans.

Can you make loaded potato salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, potato salad often tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had plenty of time to meld. If you’re able to make it ahead of time, go for it. Here are more tried-and-true tips for making potato salad!

—Julie Schnittka, Taste of Home Senior Editor, and Amy Glander, Taste of Home Book Editor