Are you craving a delectable, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or backyard barbecues? Look no further than this irresistible Creamy Potato Salad Recipe with Bacon! As an experienced food blogger and professional cook, I’m thrilled to share my signature twist on this classic dish, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests clamoring for more.
Ingredients Needed for Making Creamy Bacon Potato Salad
You’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 pounds (1.8 kg) of baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 10 large eggs
- 1 pound (454 g) of thick-cut bacon
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) of sour cream
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) of fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of lemon juice
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of white sugar (or to taste)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 ml) of salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of white pepper (or to taste)
Timing
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Resting Time | Total Time |
| 30 minutes | 25 minutes | 30 minutes | 1 hour 25 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Potato Salad Recipe with Bacon
Step 1- Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and cut them into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick slices or bite-sized chunks. Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 7-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but still firm. Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them steam dry completely.
Step 2- Cook the Bacon and Hard-Boil the Eggs: While the potatoes are boiling, cook the bacon in a skillet or oven until crispy, then crumble or chop it into small pieces. Set the bacon aside. In a separate pot, cover the eggs with cold water and bring them to a boil. Once the water begins to boil, remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the eggs sit for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, peel and dice or slice the hard-boiled eggs.
Step 3- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) of white pepper until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 4- Assemble the Potato Salad: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled potatoes, crumbled bacon, diced eggs, chopped chives, parsley, diced red onion, and the creamy dressing. Fold everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 5- Chill and Serve: Cover the potato salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This resting period is crucial for the potatoes to absorb the dressing’s delicious flavors. Once chilled, give the potato salad a gentle stir and taste it again, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra chopped chives or parsley if desired.
Tips for Dressing and Seasoning the Potato Salad for Optimal Creaminess and Taste
Use High-Quality Mayonnaise: Choose a high-quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Avoid low-fat or light mayonnaise, as they tend to lack the desired creaminess.
Incorporate Sour Cream: The addition of sour cream not only enhances the creaminess but also contributes a subtle tangy flavor that perfectly complements the potato salad.
Add Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard provides a zesty kick and depth of flavor that cuts through the richness of the dressing, creating a well-balanced taste.
Brighten with Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a refreshing zing and helps to balance the creaminess of the dressing.
Season with Fresh Herbs: Fresh chives and parsley add vibrant flavors and a pop of color to the potato salad. Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or chives for a unique twist.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your personal preference. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar as needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions for you:
1- Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled steaks, burgers, hot dogs, or barbecued chicken for a classic summer cookout experience.
2- Roasted or Smoked Meats: Complement the flavors of roasted or smoked meats like brisket, pulled pork, or ribs with this creamy potato salad.
3- Seafood: The richness of the potato salad pairs well with grilled or fried fish, shrimp skewers, or lobster rolls.
4- Vegetarian Options: This potato salad can also be enjoyed as a hearty side dish with grilled vegetables, veggie burgers, or plant-based protein options.
5- Picnic or Potluck: Pack it in a cooler and take it to picnics, potlucks, or outdoor gatherings for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s sure to be a hit.
Tips for Preparing Ahead and Storing Potato Salad with Bacon
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Here’s how to store it:
1- Refrigerate: After assembling the potato salad, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
2- Stir Before Serving: When ready to serve, gently stir the potato salad to redistribute the dressing and ensure even coating.
3- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the potato salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may need to add a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
4- Keep Chilled: If serving the potato salad outdoors or at a picnic, keep it chilled by placing the container or bowl on ice or in a cooler until ready to serve.
5- Avoid Freezing: While you can freeze cooked potatoes, it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled potato salad, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate and become watery upon thawing.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 451
- Total Fat: 31 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 143 mg
- Sodium: 763 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Total Sugars: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
Conclusion
This combination of Creamy Potato Salad Recipe with Bacon is a true testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients combined with culinary expertise. The creamy dressing, perfectly cooked potatoes, and smoky bacon create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will elevate any summer gathering or backyard barbecue. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your repertoire, earning you rave reviews from family and friends alike.
FAQs
1- Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby or Yukon Gold potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular russet or red potatoes in this recipe. However, keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time and cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
2- Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This potato salad can be prepared up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir and adjust the seasoning before serving.
3- Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise?
While you can substitute a portion of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, keep in mind that it may affect the overall creaminess and flavor of the dressing.
4- Can I omit the bacon for a vegetarian option?
Yes, you can omit the bacon to make this potato salad vegetarian-friendly. However, you may want to increase the seasoning or add additional herbs to compensate for the missing smoky flavor.
5- How long can I keep leftover potato salad?
Leftover potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, it’s best to consume it within that timeframe for optimal freshness and food safety.
Remember, the key to creating the Creamy Potato Salad Recipe with Bacon lies in using high-quality ingredients, following the step-by-step instructions, and adjusting the seasoning to your personal taste preferences. Embrace your culinary creativity, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, or additions to make this recipe your own.