After a long week filled with hustle and bustle, there’s nothing quite like the joy of creating a delicious, homemade dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine gathering your friends and family for a summer barbecue, the sun shining down as tantalizing aromas waft from the grill. That’s when my Creamy Steakhouse Potato Salad with Bacon and Cheddar comes into play—a dish that transforms the humble potato into a star worthy of the grill’s spotlight.
As the tender red potatoes mix with crispy bacon and a zingy Dijon mustard dressing, you’re in for a flavor experience that’s both satisfying and comforting. This salad, reminiscent of those classic steakhouse sides, elevates any meal, be it a holiday feast or a simple picnic in the park. Plus, it’s super adaptable! Whether you prefer a little extra crunch from diced celery or want to swap out the cheese for something bolder, you’re in control. Join me as we dive into this wonderful recipe that’s bound to become a summer staple in your kitchen!
Why is Steakhouse Potato Salad a Must-Try?
Comforting, classic taste: This creamy potato salad delivers all the nostalgic flavors you’d expect from a steakhouse side.
Effortless preparation: Even if you’re a beginner, this easy recipe requires minimal ingredients with straightforward steps.
Versatile for any occasion: Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
Flavor-packed indulgence: The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy Dijon dressing creates a taste explosion.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare this salad up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld while saving you time on busy days.
Steakhouse Potato Salad Ingredients
• Discover everything you need for this creamy delight!
For the Salad
- Red Potatoes – The tender base that holds the creamy goodness; choose small to medium-sized for the best texture.
- Crispy Bacon – Provides that irresistible crunch; turkey bacon is a tasty, lower-fat alternative.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds rich flavor and creaminess; feel free to substitute with colby for a milder bite.
- Dill Pickles – Introduces a tangy contrast to the creamy elements; swap with sweet pickles if preferred.
For the Dressing
- Dijon Mustard – Enhances the salad with a zesty kick; yellow mustard can be used for a milder dressing.
- Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the dressing; Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute if desired.
For Garnish
- Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, chives) – Elevate both flavor and presentation; optional but highly recommended for a vibrant touch.
This Steakhouse Potato Salad is ready to shine at your next gathering!
How to Make Steakhouse Potato Salad
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Prep Ingredients: Start by washing and cutting your red potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Cook them in salted boiling water until fork-tender, roughly 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
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Cook Bacon: In a skillet, sauté the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
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Make Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy. This will become the delicious dressing for your potato salad.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, dill pickles, and the prepared dressing. Stir gently to ensure everything is well-coated.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chill time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, garnish with fresh herbs for that lovely finish.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Steakhouse Potato Salad
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Choose Quality Potatoes: Use fresh red potatoes for the best flavor and texture; avoid any that are wrinkled or have blemishes.
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Mind the Cooking Time: Ensure potatoes are just fork-tender but not mushy to maintain the right texture in your steakhouse potato salad.
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Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate your salad for at least an hour, or even overnight, to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
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Customize Wisely: While variations are great, stick to balanced flavors; avoid overpowering the dressing with too many extras, like excessive herbs or spices.
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Bacon Hacks: Cook bacon until extra crispy for the best crunch; consider cooking it in the oven for easier cleanup and even crisping.
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Dressing Consistency: If your dressing is too thick, add a touch of vinegar or lemon juice to achieve the desired creamy pour for your steakhouse potato salad.
How to Store and Freeze Steakhouse Potato Salad
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Fridge: Store your steakhouse potato salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors.
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Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 1 month. Just be aware that the potatoes may become grainy upon thawing, so it’s recommended to prepare it fresh.
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Reheating: If you’ve stored it in the refrigerator, simply give it a good stir and enjoy cold. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
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Make-Ahead: Feel free to prep the salad 24 hours in advance; storing it gives the flavors time to meld, making it even more delectable!
Steakhouse Potato Salad Variations
Feel inspired to make this dish uniquely yours with delightful twists and substitutions!
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Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise with silken tofu and a splash of lemon juice for a creamy texture without dairy. It’s a vegan twist that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
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Cheesy Alternatives: Use crumbled feta or gorgonzola instead of cheddar for a bold and tangy flavor kick, elevating the dish to a new taste profile that surprises your palate.
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Herb Boost: Fresh dill or basil can replace parsley, adding a burst of freshness that complements the creamy dressing beautifully while enhancing visual appeal and aroma.
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Crunch Factor: Toss in diced celery or radishes for an extra layer of crunch that adds delightful texture and rounds out the medley of flavors in your salad.
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Extra Zing: Mix in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños for an exciting kick, transforming your potato salad into a taste adventure that spice lovers will adore.
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Different Pickles: Experiment with sliced olives or even kimchi for a twist on the tanginess, bringing an unexpected but delicious flavor note that will make everyone curious for the recipe.
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Protein Punch: Add diced hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas to make it heartier, supporting a balanced meal while providing additional nutrition perfect for gatherings.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder into your dressing for a subtle smokiness that enhances the dish and complements grilled meats seamlessly.
Make Ahead Options
These Steakhouse Potato Salad preparations are an absolute game changer for busy home cooks! You can prep the potatoes and crispy bacon up to 24 hours in advance, cooking the potatoes until fork-tender (but not mushy) and storing them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The bacon should also be cooked and stored separately to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, just mix the chilled potatoes with the bacon, cheddar, pickles, and dressing. Combining everything right before serving enhances flavor freshness, ensuring the dish is just as delicious and vibrant as it should be! This make-ahead approach saves you precious time without compromising that comforting, steakhouse taste.
What to Serve with Steakhouse Potato Salad?
Gathering around the table with loved ones calls for delightful pairings that complement every bite of this creamy dish.
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Grilled Steak: The robust flavors of a perfectly grilled steak enhance the creamy salad, creating an ideal balance of textures and taste.
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BBQ Ribs: Smoky, tender BBQ ribs pair beautifully, making your meal feel like a summer feast fit for a crowd.
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Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn brings a fresh crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy potato salad, perfect for warm evenings.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy Caesar dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint, ensuring your meal is diverse and satisfying.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: These sweet and tender carrots add a splash of color to your plate, enhancing both the visual appeal and taste experience.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A glass of sweet iced tea or refreshing lemonade completes the meal, offering a cooling sip to balance out the smoky barbecue flavors.
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Peach Cobbler: For a sweet finish, a warm peach cobbler brings the meal to a delightful close while echoing those summer vibes.
This hearty Steakhouse Potato Salad is a versatile side that invites creativity in your meal planning!
Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of red potatoes should I use?
I recommend using small to medium-sized red potatoes for the best texture. Look for ones that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with dark spots, wrinkles, or blemishes. These will hold up better in your salad and provide that perfect bite!
How should I store leftover steakhouse potato salad?
Store your steakhouse potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving as some separation may occur.
Can I freeze steakhouse potato salad?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 1 month. To freeze, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s no excess air inside. Remember that potatoes may become somewhat grainy upon thawing, so freshness is ideal!
What can I do if my potatoes are too soft?
If you accidentally overcook the potatoes and they become too soft, try to salvage your salad by gently folding in some crisp vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch. You might also consider turning it into a creamy dip by mashing the excess potatoes!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This salad can easily be adapted for dietary needs. Use gluten-free mayonnaise and turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option. If you’re concerned about allergies, check your bacon, cheese, and mayo ingredients—they can sometimes contain hidden allergens.
How can I enhance the flavor of my steakhouse potato salad?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or spices like paprika for a slight kick. You can also incorporate diced celery or red onions for extra crunch. Just remember to keep the balance, so the salad doesn’t become too overpowering!
Steakhouse Potato Salad: Creamy Bacon Goodness You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and cut the red potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Cook them in salted boiling water until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- In a skillet, sauté the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Place the bacon on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise until smooth to make the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, dill pickles, and the prepared dressing. Stir gently.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving.