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This creamy potato salad blends smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy pickles into a rich, satisfying bite. The mix of textures—from tender potatoes to crispy bacon—keeps every forkful balanced and full of flavor. It’s a classic favorite with a steakhouse-style twist that makes it stand out on any table.

What sets this version apart is the cooking order, which builds layers of flavor instead of rushing the process. Each step is intentional, giving you a creamy, well-seasoned dish with the perfect texture. It pairs perfectly with hearty mains like smoked ribs, grilled chicken, or burgers from Smokin and Grillin with AB when you’re putting together a full meal.

🍽️ A Quick Look at the Recipe

Recipe Name: Steakhouse Potato Salad
⏱️ Ready In: 1 hour 35 minutes
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Serves: 8
🥣 Key Ingredients: Red potatoes, bacon, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, dill pickles
📖 Dietary Info: Contains dairy, gluten-free
🔥 Why You’ll Love It: A creamy, smoky, tangy potato salad packed with bold steakhouse flavor.


Key Ingredients

Red Potatoes

They hold their shape after boiling and give the salad a smooth, creamy bite without falling apart.

Bacon

Adds a smoky, crispy texture that brings depth and that classic steakhouse feel.

Cheddar Cheese

Provides a rich, sharp flavor that balances perfectly with the creamy dressing.

Dill Pickles

Bring acidity and crunch, cutting through the richness and keeping the dish from feeling heavy.

Steakhouse Loaded Potato Salad
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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Base

Place cubed red potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 10–15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and allow to cool completely so the dressing stays thick.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Cook and Control

Add the cooled potatoes, chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, and dill pickles. Gently fold everything together, making sure not to mash the potatoes.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend. Garnish with chives or green onions before serving.

Tips & Tricks

  • Let potatoes cool before mixing to avoid a runny dressing
  • Gently fold ingredients to keep potatoes intact
  • Cook bacon ahead of time for quicker prep
  • Taste before adding salt since bacon and pickles add natural saltiness

Variations

Ranch Style: Swap Dijon mustard for ranch seasoning

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce

S Add chopped grilled chicken or steak pieces


Serving Suggestions


Notes

  • Adjust vinegar or mustard for extra tang if preferred
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
  • Chilling the salad enhances flavor and thickens the dressing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt or a mayo alternative can be used, but it will slightly change the flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat this?
This dish is best served cold, but you can let it sit at room temperature briefly before serving.

Can I make this without a Slow cooker?
No, this recipe is best prepared using stovetop boiling and mixing.


If you tried Steakhouse Potato Salad or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it turned out in the comments!

Steakhouse Potato Salad

5 from 1 vote
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8
This creamy steakhouse potato salad is loaded with bacon, cheddar, and pickles, making it the perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, and potlucks.
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Equipment

  • 1 Medium Pot
  • 1 Skillet
  • 1 Mixing bowl

Ingredients  

  • 2 lb Red Potatoes, Cubed
  • 1 cups Cheddar Cheese, Shredded
  • 1/2 cups Mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cups Sour Cream
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 Small Red Onion, Chopped
  • 5 Strips Bacon, Cooked and Crumbled
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Dill Pickles
  • Salt to taste

Instructions 

  • Place the cubed red potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork-tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Drain well and allow the potatoes to cool completely to prevent the dressing from thinning out.
  • While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the dressing by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl along with chopped red onion, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, and dill pickles. Gently fold everything together to keep the potatoes intact.
  • Season with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go to ensure the balance is right without over-salting.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to fully develop and the dressing to thicken.
  • Before serving, give the potato salad a light stir and garnish with chopped chives or green onions. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

  • For extra tang, add a splash of vinegar just before serving
  • Keep refrigerated and avoid leaving out too long at room temperature
  • Add a spoonful of mayo before serving if you want a creamier finish

Nutrition

Calories: 171kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 226mg | Potassium: 41mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.5g | Vitamin A: 356IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 113mg | Iron: 0.2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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About AB

Aaron “A.B.” Brown, a self-taught culinary maestro, has carved his flavorful path into the hearts and kitchens of millions. With over 3.6 million devoted YouTube subscribers, he’s become a household name for those seeking culinary expertise.

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