Loaded Smashed Potato Salad - Easy Recipe for Gatherings

Potato salad is an enduring favorite at gatherings, barbecues, and potlucks—but have you tried a Loaded Smashed Potato Salad? Imagine the creamy satisfaction of traditional potato salad enhanced by smoky bacon, melted cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs.

This recipe takes the classic to the next level, creating a hearty dish that’s equal parts indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re a home cook, a foodie, or just love delicious salads, this guide will help you create a loaded smashed potato salad that’ll wow every crowd.

What Makes Loaded Smashed Potato Salad Special?

Loaded smashed potato salad isn’t your ordinary side dish. It combines comfort food staples like crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy sour cream with soft, slightly smashed baby potatoes to create a texture-packed experience. Add in fresh garnishes like green onions or parsley, and this dish perfectly walks the line between rich flavors and fresh vitality.

The result? A hearty, irresistible salad that works as both a side dish and the star of your table. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can tweak it to your taste preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we smash and load those potatoes, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad:

2 lbs baby potatoes (yellow or red are best)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

6 strips of crispy bacon, crumbled
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2–3 green onions, thinly sliced (or parsley for garnish)

For the Dressing:

⅔ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
Salt & pepper to taste

Optional add-ins:

Chopped pickles for tanginess
Jalapeños for spice
Diced boiled eggs for added protein

Pro tip: Choose high-quality ingredients, as they will elevate the overall flavor of your salad. For example, opt for thick-cut smoked bacon and freshly shredded cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Cook the Potatoes

Start by rinsing the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Leave the skin on for added texture and nutrition.

Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain and Smash: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Using the back of a fork or a potato masher, gently flatten each potato halfway. You’re looking for a smashed, rustic texture—not completely mashed.

Step 2. Roast for Extra Flavor

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Spread the smashed potatoes onto a lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil, and season them with salt and pepper.
Roast for 20–25 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

Step 3. Prepare the Bacon

While the potatoes roast:

Cook your bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Alternatively, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to drain excess grease, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4. Mix Up the Dressing

While the potatoes and bacon work their magic, whip up the dressing:

Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and set aside. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5. Assemble the Salad

Once the potatoes are roasted and slightly cooled:

Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the potatoes. Gently toss to coat every piece.
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions over the top.
Finish with any optional toppings like parsley, jalapeños, or boiled eggs, for your perfect loaded salad.

Step 6. Chill (or Serve Warm)

This salad can be served warm if you’re in a hurry, but chilling it in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Variations to Try

Make this recipe your own with these easy custom twists:

Make it Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add roasted mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an earthy flavor.
Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat.
Lighten It Up: Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and mayonnaise for a healthier option.
Add Protein: Toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken or boiled eggs for an entree-worthy dish.

Why Everyone Will Love It

This isn’t just a salad; it’s a showstopper. It’s creamy, crunchy, smoky, and downright decadent while still managing to retain the fresh appeal of a salad. Here’s why it’s a hit:

Perfect for Gatherings: This crowd-pleasing side dish is ideal for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, it’s beginner-friendly yet impressive.
Versatile: Serve it warm or cold, and adjust the ingredients to match your dietary preferences or flavor cravings.

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Loaded Smashed Potato Salad

Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby yellow or red potatoes work best because their waxy texture holds up well and remains creamy after cooking.
Roast Instead of Fry: Roasting smashed potatoes adds a beautiful golden crispness without the need for deep frying.
Don’t Over-Smash: Gently press the potatoes to maintain a mixture of soft and crispy textures.
Balance Flavors: Make sure the dressing is well-seasoned; the potatoes will absorb some salt as they sit.
Prep Ahead: You can cook and roast the potatoes ahead of time, then assemble with the dressing and toppings just before serving.

Bring It to the Table

Loaded smashed potato salad is the ultimate combination of comfort food and sophistication. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just craving something new for dinner, this recipe delivers deliciously every time.

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