Steakhouse Potato Salad

This recipe takes the classic potato salad you already love and elevates it with flavors you’d expect at a steakhouse. Soft potatoes are combined with a creamy, tangy dressing that blends mayo, sour cream, and mustard for richness. The real excitement comes from smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions that bring texture and depth. Every forkful feels satisfying and layered, making it stand out among side dishes.

What makes this potato salad so special is how hearty it feels. It’s not just potatoes and dressing but a mix of textures and bold flavors that can complement a juicy steak or even serve as a standalone dish. The bacon adds crispness, the cheese gives it a comforting bite, and the parsley brightens everything. Whenever I make it, I can’t help but sneak a spoonful straight from the fridge before it even hits the table, because it tastes that good.

Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or potlucks, this dish always draws attention. It keeps well, which makes it ideal for preparing ahead of time, and the flavors deepen as it chills. I often prepare it the night before hosting, and by the next day, the potatoes soak up every bit of seasoning. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself bringing to gatherings again and again, because it’s simple yet never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This potato salad captures everything you’d want in a comforting, hearty side dish.

Steakhouse flavor at home: Smoky bacon, cheddar, and creamy dressing create indulgence.

Easy to prepare: Simple steps with everyday ingredients make it stress-free.

Crowd favorite: Always a hit at barbecues, potlucks, and picnics.

Perfect balance: Creamy, tangy, savory, and smoky in every bite.

Flexible recipe: Works as a side or main dish, depending on how you serve it.

Great for leftovers: Flavors intensify overnight, so it’s even better the next day.

Customizable: Add eggs, extra veggies, or spices to make it your own.

Here’s something I like to do: I always save a little extra cheese and bacon to sprinkle on top just before serving. Not only does it look inviting, but it also gives you that crisp, fresh flavor contrast in every bite. People always notice that garnish, and it makes the bowl feel restaurant-worthy.

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Ingredients

For the Potato Salad:

• 2 pounds baby red or Yukon gold potatoes
  
• ½ cup mayonnaise
  
• ½ cup sour cream
  
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
  
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
  
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  
• 3 green onions, sliced
  
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  

Optional Add-ins:

• 2 boiled eggs, chopped
  
• ½ cup diced celery for crunch
  
• A pinch of smoked paprika for garnish
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes

Wash and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and season generously with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and let them cool slightly, so they stay firm when mixed with the dressing.

2. Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Taste it at this point and adjust the seasoning—sometimes I like to add just a bit more vinegar for a sharper tang.

3. Mix in the Potatoes

Add the warm potatoes to the dressing. Folding them in while they’re still a little warm helps them soak up the flavors better. Gently toss until every piece is coated. Don’t rush this step—you want each potato to carry the flavor without breaking apart.

4. Add the Flavor Boosters

Stir in the bacon crumbles, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and parsley. Mix gently to combine everything evenly. You’ll notice how the cheese begins to soften slightly into the warm potatoes, adding creaminess that ties everything together.

5. Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. This resting time allows the dressing to settle and the flavors to blend deeply. I usually let it chill overnight for maximum flavor payoff.

6.  Serve and Enjoy

Right before serving, sprinkle with smoked paprika, a few extra bacon bits, or fresh parsley. Serve cold or slightly chilled alongside grilled meats, burgers, or other barbecue favorites.

Tips & Variations

• Healthier twist: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to cut calories while keeping it creamy.
  
• Tangy kick: Add chopped pickles or relish for an extra layer of brightness.
  
• Protein boost: Stir in chopped boiled eggs for a richer, more filling salad.
  
• Spicy version: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
  
• Cheese swap: Try smoked Gouda or pepper jack for a new flavor.
  
• Veggie add-ins: Celery, bell peppers, or cucumbers add crunch and freshness.
  

Here’s a tip I always follow: never add all the bacon at once. Mix half into the salad for flavor, then keep the other half for garnish. That way, you get a mix of soft bacon inside and crispy bacon on top, which makes each bite exciting. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.

Serving Suggestions

This potato salad fits right into backyard cookouts, steak dinners, and summer barbecues. It pairs beautifully with juicy grilled steak, barbecue ribs, or crispy fried chicken. You can also bring it to picnics as a cold side that complements sandwiches, burgers, and even seafood.

On casual nights, I sometimes enjoy it as a main dish. I’ll scoop a big serving into a bowl, sprinkle on extra bacon, and serve it with a light green salad on the side. It feels filling but doesn’t require much effort, which makes it perfect for busy evenings. This salad easily works for both family dinners and larger gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Steakhouse Potato Salad is the kind of recipe that delivers comfort and bold flavor all in one. The creamy base, smoky bacon, and tangy dressing come together to make something rich yet balanced. It’s easy enough to whip up with simple ingredients, but it has that steakhouse flair that makes it feel special.

The best part is how versatile it is. You can stick to the classic version, or you can play around with add-ins and variations to make it fit your taste. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, packing it for a picnic, or keeping it in the fridge for quick lunches, this potato salad never disappoints. It’s the dish I always turn to when I want something reliable, tasty, and satisfying.