Looking for the ultimate side dish that will steal the spotlight at your next BBQ or potluck? This Smoked Cheddar Bacon Potato Salad is your answer. With creamy textures, smoky flavors, and the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about.
Perfectly tender smoked baby potatoes are combined with sharp cheddar and a rich dressing that takes this dish from simple to sensational. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a comforting treat, this potato salad is sure to impress.
Trust me when I say, once you make this salad, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a flavorful experience that brings everyone together.
Understanding the Components
The Smoked Cheddar Bacon Potato Salad brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
At its core, the dish features tender baby potatoes that have been expertly halved, allowing for a perfect balance of creaminess and crunch.
The baby potatoes are elevated by the addition of smoked cheddar cheese, which adds a rich and savory profile that is hard to resist.
Crispy bacon bits sprinkle throughout the salad, providing an irresistible crunch that complements the creamy dressing.
This combination creates a satisfying dish that stands out at any gathering.
The Creamy Dressing
The dressing is the heart of this salad, blending creamy ingredients that enhance the flavors of each component.
A mix of mayonnaise and sour cream adds richness, while Dijon mustard offers a subtle tang that brightens the overall taste.
Smoked paprika and garlic powder contribute depth, rounding out the flavor profile.
When combined, these elements result in a luscious dressing that perfectly coats the potatoes and other ingredients.
It’s this creamy concoction that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable side dish.
Cooking the Potatoes
Preparation begins with the baby potatoes, which are seasoned and smoked to perfection.
Tossing halved potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper ensures they’re flavorful before being placed in the smoker.
Smoking them for one and a half to two hours allows the flavors to develop and creates a tender texture.
Once removed from the smoker, allowing the potatoes to cool slightly is vital before mixing them with the dressing.
This step ensures the potatoes maintain their structure while absorbing the dressing.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Assembling the salad is a straightforward yet rewarding process.
Once the potatoes are cooled, they are gently folded with the creamy dressing, smoked cheddar, bacon, and green onions.
This careful mixing ensures that each bite is filled with flavor.
For an added burst of color and flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like chives or extra bacon bits, and a light dusting of paprika on top.
The visual appeal of this dish is as impressive as its taste, making it a highlight at any table.
Serving Suggestions
This Smoked Cheddar Bacon Potato Salad is versatile, fitting seamlessly into various occasions.
Whether served alongside grilled meats at a summer barbecue or as a comforting side at a cozy gathering, it pairs well with many dishes.
Its rich flavors can complement anything from burgers to roasted vegetables.
For optimal flavor, consider chilling the salad for about an hour before serving.
This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, providing a cohesive taste that guests will love.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This dish is not only delicious but also offers a satisfying serving that can feed a crowd.
With approximately 350 calories per serving, the salad strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition.
Each serving provides a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making it a hearty side option.
For gatherings, this recipe serves 6-8 people, ensuring there’s enough for everyone to enjoy.
With such a delightful combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite amongst friends and family alike.
Delicious Smoked Cheddar Bacon Potato Salad Recipe
This potato salad combines the richness of mayo and sour cream with the smokiness of the cheddar cheese and bacon. The result is a creamy, savory dish that’s both indulgent and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup smoked cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
- 2 green onions, sliced thin
- Optional garnish: chives, extra bacon bits, paprika dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
- Prep the potatoes: Toss halved baby potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them in a foil tray or cast iron pan, cut side up.
- Smoke potatoes for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until fork-tender with slightly golden edges. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
- Cook bacon in a skillet or oven until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly (10–15 minutes), then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, mustard, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Assemble the salad: Gently fold the smoked potatoes with the dressing, cheddar, bacon, and green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Optional: Chill for 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Smoking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Chill Time: 1 hour (optional for best flavor)
- Total Time: ~3 hours
- Servings: 6–8 servings
- Calories: Approximately 350kcal per serving
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
