Print

Cozy German Potato Salad Recipe with Warm Bacon Vinaigrette

german potato salad - featured image

A warm and comforting German potato salad featuring tender potatoes coated in a smoky, tangy bacon vinaigrette. Perfect as a cozy side dish for chilly days or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds small red potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar (80 ml)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (60 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and set aside.
  3. While the potatoes are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add diced onions to the bacon fat and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes.
  6. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  7. Stir in apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, sugar, and Dijon mustard into the skillet with onion and garlic.
  8. Increase heat slightly and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture slightly thickens and melds together.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Immediately add the drained potatoes back into the skillet with the warm vinaigrette. Gently toss to coat all potatoes evenly.
  11. Fold in the crispy bacon pieces and fresh parsley. Give everything one last gentle toss.
  12. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  13. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but hold their shape. Avoid burning the garlic to prevent bitterness. For extra tang, add a splash of vinegar before serving. Turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative but will alter the flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: German potato salad, warm potato salad, bacon vinaigrette, cozy side dish, comfort food, easy potato salad