Why You’ll Love This Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a standout side dish that combines classic flavors with a hearty twist, you’ll love this Steakhouse Bacon Ranch Potato Salad.
It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with smoky bacon that elevates every bite. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a delicious richness, while the crisp green onions provide a revitalizing crunch.
Plus, it’s super easy to make, and you can whip it up in no time! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just want a tasty side for dinner, this potato salad will steal the show and have everyone coming back for seconds.
Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Steakhouse Potato Salad
When it comes to whipping up a side dish that’s both hearty and delicious, this Steakhouse Bacon Ranch Potato Salad is where it’s at. It’s got everything you want: creamy, tangy goodness, crispy bacon, and a cheesy kick. Seriously, who can resist that combination?
Plus, it’s a breeze to throw together, making it perfect for those summer barbecues or even a cozy dinner at home. Let’s explore what you’ll need to make this mouth-watering dish.
Here’s your ingredient list for the Steakhouse Bacon Ranch Potato Salad:
- 3 lbs small red potatoes, quartered
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup Miracle Whip
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
Now, before you start gathering your ingredients, let’s chat a bit about them. The small red potatoes are perfect for this salad because they hold their shape well after cooking, giving that nice bite without turning mushy.
And don’t skimp on the bacon; it’s the star of the show here. You can use turkey bacon if you want to make it a bit lighter, but let’s be real, bacon is bacon, right? The sharp cheddar adds that rich flavor, and the green onions bring a fresh crunch that brightens everything up.
Just remember, using fresh ingredients really makes a difference. So, whether you’re at the grocery store or rummaging through your pantry, keep it fresh and fabulous.
How to Make Steakhouse Potato Salad
Making the Steakhouse Bacon Ranch Potato Salad is like setting out on a culinary adventure that leads straight to Flavor Town. First up, grab those 3 lbs of small red potatoes and quarter them. You want them to be bite-sized, but not so small that they’ll disappear into the salad. Toss the quartered potatoes into a 2-quart microwaveable dish along with 1/2 cup of water. Cover that dish up—because nobody likes a mess in the microwave—and pop it in on high for about 12 to 15 minutes.
The goal here is for the potatoes to be tender, but not mushy. Once they’re perfect, let them cool down before you throw them in the fridge for at least an hour. I mean, who wants warm potato salad? Not me.
While your potatoes are chilling out in the fridge, you can focus on the fun part—mixing everything together. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of Miracle Whip and 1/4 cup of ranch dressing. This creamy duo is the heart and soul of your salad, bringing that tangy goodness that pairs so well with the potatoes.
Now, it’s time to add in the real stars of the show: 6 slices of crumbled bacon, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 2 thinly sliced green onions. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cracked black pepper and 2 tablespoons of dried parsley for some extra flavor and color.
When your potatoes are fully chilled and ready to party, toss them in with this creamy mixture. Gently fold everything together—this isn’t a wrestling match, so be kind to those potatoes. Once everything is combined, you’ll have a vibrant, hearty salad that’s just begging to be served at your next gathering or cozy dinner at home.
And there you have it, folks! A simple, delicious steakhouse potato salad that’s sure to impress. Just remember to taste it before serving; you can always adjust the seasonings to suit your palate.
Steakhouse Potato Salad Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Steakhouse Bacon Ranch Potato Salad is a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. You can swap red potatoes for Yukon Golds or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
If you’re not a fan of Miracle Whip, try using Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Want to kick up the flavor? Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
For a different cheese experience, swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack or feta. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and create a potato salad that fits your taste!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Steakhouse Bacon Ranch Potato Salad turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping the ingredients ahead of time. This makes the assembly quick and easy.
When microwaving the potatoes, check them at the 12-minute mark; you want them tender but not mushy. For an even richer flavor, let the salad chill overnight—this allows the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy them within a few days. Trust me, this salad tastes even better the next day!