Potato salad is a timeless side dish, but when you add smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy ranch dressing, it transforms into something truly irresistible. Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or family gatherings. The tangy ranch dressing pairs beautifully with tender potatoes, while the bacon and cheese bring savory richness that makes every bite satisfying. Best of all, this recipe is simple to prepare and can be made ahead, making it an ideal dish for entertaining or meal prepping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, flavorful twist on traditional potato salad.
- Easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients.
- Perfect make-ahead side for parties, cookouts, or family meals.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for bacon and cheese lovers.
Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad: A Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A creamy and flavorful potato salad loaded with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and ranch dressing. A crowd-pleasing side dish for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet or red potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Place cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine ranch dressing, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add potatoes to the dressing mixture and gently toss until coated.
- Fold in cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For added flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
- You can substitute sour cream for mayonnaise for a tangier taste.
- Best served chilled, but can be enjoyed warm as well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes) – tender, creamy texture that holds shape well.
Bacon – adds smoky, salty crunch to balance the creamy dressing.
Cheddar cheese – sharp flavor that pairs beautifully with ranch.
Ranch dressing – creamy base that ties everything together.
Mayonnaise – boosts creaminess and richness.
Sour cream – adds tangy balance to the dressing.
Green onions – fresh, mild bite to brighten flavor.
Fresh parsley – optional garnish for color and freshness.
Salt and black pepper – to season and enhance the flavors.
Directions
- Wash and cut potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Place in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
- While potatoes cook, fry bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl and toss gently to coat with dressing.
- Stir in bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra bacon or cheese if desired.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 6–8 portions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
storage/reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving, as dressing may settle.
- Not recommended for freezing, as potatoes lose texture when thawed.
FAQs
What type of potatoes are best?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and have a creamy texture, making them ideal.
Can I use bottled ranch dressing?
Yes, but homemade ranch dressing adds fresher flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Can I make it lighter?
Use light ranch, reduced-fat sour cream, and turkey bacon for a lighter version.
Can I serve this warm?
It’s best chilled, but can also be enjoyed slightly warm.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is traditional, but pepper jack or Colby Jack work for variations.
Can I add more mix-ins?
Yes—chopped celery, bell peppers, or hard-boiled eggs make great additions.
How do I prevent the potatoes from getting mushy?
Cook until just fork-tender and avoid overmixing when adding dressing.
Conclusion
Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad takes a classic side dish to the next level with bold flavors and creamy texture. Smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy ranch create a dish that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing. Perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or family dinners, this potato salad is one recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.
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