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Creamy Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Salad

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A creamy, smoky, and crunchy potato salad perfect for summer gatherings, featuring Yukon Gold potatoes, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 1 cup creamy ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 3 stalks green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Place the cut Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. While potatoes cook, cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ranch dressing, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, ranch seasoning mix (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Stir diced red onion, chopped celery, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and parsley into the dressing.
  6. Gently fold the warm potatoes into the dressing mixture, being careful not to mash them. Then fold in the crispy bacon pieces.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to marry. A 30-minute chill works in a pinch.
  8. If the salad feels too thick after chilling, stir in a little more ranch dressing or a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Notes

Do not overcook potatoes to avoid mushy salad. Use Yukon Gold potatoes for best texture. Cook bacon low and slow for perfect crispness. Chill salad for at least 1 hour for best flavor. Can substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or use dairy-free ranch for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato salad, bacon, ranch dressing, summer side dish, creamy potato salad, picnic recipe, barbecue side

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/creamy-loaded-bacon-ranch-potato-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-summer-side/