Steakhouse Potato Salad
Steakhouse Potato Salad is a deliciously creamy twist on the classic potato salad. Packed with flavors from crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and tangy dill pickles, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, attending a potluck, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, this loaded potato salad will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy dressing and savory ingredients creates an explosion of taste that elevates traditional potato salad.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for grilled meats, or as a dish for gatherings; this salad fits right in at any meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making Steakhouse Potato Salad is a breeze.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together, saving you time on busy days.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its hearty components, everyone will love this flavorful addition to their plate.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your Steakhouse Potato Salad, ensure you have the following tools ready to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Plastic wrap
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until fork-tender.
- Colander: Helps drain the potatoes efficiently after boiling to prevent sogginess.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl ensures easy mixing of all ingredients without spills.
- Spoon or spatula: Useful for gently folding ingredients together to maintain potato integrity.
Ingredients
Steakhouse Potato Salad is a creamy loaded version of classic potato salad. Soft red potatoes are smothered in a creamy dijon mustard dressing and then it’s loaded with all the steakhouse mix-ins like bacon, shredded cheese, onion, and dill pickles. This potato salad is the best side dish recipe for any gathering, potluck, BBQ, or summertime picnic.
Base Ingredients
- 2 pounds red potatoes (washed & cubed)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
Flavor Boosters
- 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
- 5 crispy cooked bacon strips (crumbled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild, medium, or sharp cheddar)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
Seasoning
- salt & black pepper (to taste)
- chopped chives or sliced green onions (optional garnish)
How to Make Steakhouse Potato Salad
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Place potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling:
1. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
2. Drain in a colander and let them cool to room temperature. You can peel the skins off if desired.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Mix until combined and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled cooked potatoes to the bowl along with:
– Finely chopped red onion,
– Crumbled bacon,
– Shredded cheese,
– Chopped parsley,
– Chopped dill pickles.
Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend. For garnish, add chopped chives or sliced green onions just before serving. Note that it’s best not to refrigerate longer than 1-4 hours as it may absorb moisture from the dressing. You can always add more mayonnaise if needed!
How to Serve Steakhouse Potato Salad
Steakhouse Potato Salad is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a picnic, here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your potato salad shine.
As a Side for Grilled Meats
- Grilled Steak: The creamy and loaded flavors of the potato salad complement the rich taste of grilled steak perfectly.
- BBQ Chicken: Pair it with BBQ chicken for a delicious contrast between smoky and creamy flavors.
In a Picnic Spread
- Sandwiches: Serve alongside hearty sandwiches for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Fresh Veggies: Present it with an assortment of fresh veggies like carrots and celery sticks for a crunchy side.
At Potlucks
- Buffet Style: Offer in a large bowl with serving spoons so guests can help themselves at potlucks.
- Mini Cups: Serve in individual cups for easy sharing and to minimize mess.
How to Perfect Steakhouse Potato Salad
To ensure your Steakhouse Potato Salad is always a hit, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh red potatoes and high-quality bacon to enhance flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite tastier.
- Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to add more mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier texture after chilling.
- Mix-in Variety: Experiment with additional mix-ins like hard-boiled eggs or different cheeses for unique twists on the classic recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Steakhouse Potato Salad
Steakhouse Potato Salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory potato salad, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast with its crunchiness and acidity.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans balances well with the creaminess of potato salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover dressing from your plate.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing addition alongside your hearty potato dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make your Steakhouse Potato Salad truly shine, avoid these common pitfalls that can impact flavor and texture.
- Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing the potatoes to cool completely can result in a mushy salad. Always let them sit until room temperature before mixing with the dressing.
- Overcooking the potatoes: Cooking potatoes too long can lead to a grainy texture. Aim for fork-tender but not falling apart.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your salad bland. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as you mix.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh, quality ingredients like crispy bacon and good cheddar cheese. They make a significant difference in flavor.
- Refrigerating too long: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for more than 4 hours can cause it to dry out. Serve fresh or add extra mayo before serving if needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days for best taste.
Freezing Steakhouse Potato Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as potatoes can become grainy when thawed.
- If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
Reheating Steakhouse Potato Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Gently heat in a pan over low heat while stirring until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Steakhouse Potato Salad that might help you perfect your dish.
What makes this a Steakhouse Potato Salad?
This dish incorporates classic steakhouse flavors with creamy dressing, bacon, and cheese, offering a hearty twist on traditional potato salad.
Can I customize my Steakhouse Potato Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like different cheeses, herbs, or even diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
How do I prevent my potato salad from becoming mushy?
To avoid mushiness, cook potatoes until just fork-tender and cool them properly before mixing with other ingredients.
Can I make this Potato Salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to 4 hours ahead of serving. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy.
What are some great pairings for Steakhouse Potato Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, burgers, or as part of a picnic spread alongside fresh veggies and dips.
Final Thoughts
Steakhouse Potato Salad is an irresistible side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any gathering. With its creamy dressing and hearty mix-ins like bacon and cheese, it’s sure to be a hit at BBQs and potlucks. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or herbs!
Steakhouse Potato Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Steakhouse Potato Salad is a delightful spin on the classic dish, bursting with flavor and texture that’s sure to impress your guests. Creamy red potatoes are dressed in a tangy dijon mustard dressing and loaded with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and zesty dill pickles. This comforting side dish is perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or family gatherings. With its savory ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Enjoy it chilled as the flavors meld together beautifully for a satisfying complement to your favorite grilled meats or sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds red potatoes
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 5 strips crispy bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small red onion
- 1/4 cup dill pickles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the cubed potatoes in a large pot of boiling water for about 10-15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and dijon mustard until smooth.
- Add cooled potatoes to the dressing along with chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and dill pickles. Mix gently.
- Season with salt and pepper as desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling/Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
