If you’re looking to elevate your classic potato salad, this Steakhouse Potato Salad is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with steakhouse-inspired ingredients like crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, green onions, and a tangy sour cream dressing. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of hearty comfort and bold, savory flavor—just like something you’d order alongside a juicy steak.
The first time I made this, it instantly became the star of our backyard cookout. Once, I added chopped dill pickles for a zesty crunch, and it was an absolute hit. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing a picnic, or craving something special for weeknight dinners, this potato salad will steal the show.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Steakhouse Potato Salad takes the familiar comfort of classic potato salad and gives it a restaurant-worthy twist. It’s creamy yet tangy, rich but balanced, and packed with texture from bacon and cheese. Best of all, it’s simple to make ahead, travels well, and tastes even better the next day—making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
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Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe: Creamy, Hearty, and Bursting with Bold Flavor
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty, flavor-packed potato salad inspired by classic steakhouse sides — made with tender baby potatoes, crispy bacon, green onions, and a creamy, tangy dressing with hints of garlic and Dijon mustard.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby red or Yukon gold potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional for extra richness)
Instructions
- Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Add the warm potatoes to the dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Fold in crumbled bacon, green onions, parsley, and cheddar cheese (if using).
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Serve cold or at room temperature alongside grilled steak, chicken, or burgers.
Notes
- For extra tang, add a splash of pickle juice or chopped dill pickles.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
- Make this potato salad ahead — it tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.
- Garnish with extra bacon and green onions just before serving for presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiled / Mixed
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes – Tender and creamy, perfect for soaking up the dressing.
Bacon (cooked and crumbled) – Adds smoky, salty crunch.
Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded) – Melty, rich, and full of flavor.
Green onions (sliced) – Fresh and mild, for a pop of brightness.
Sour cream – Creates the creamy, tangy base of the dressing.
Mayonnaise – Adds richness and a smooth, velvety texture.
Dijon mustard – Brings a subtle sharpness that balances the creaminess.
Apple cider vinegar – Adds tang and helps cut through the richness.
Garlic powder and onion powder – Enhance the savory flavors.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
Chives or parsley (optional) – For garnish and a touch of freshness.
Directions
- Cook the potatoes:
Wash, peel (optional), and cut potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly. - Make the dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. - Combine ingredients:
Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl along with shredded cheddar, green onions, and crumbled bacon. Gently toss to coat everything evenly in the dressing. - Chill and serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving. - Optional finishing touch:
Sprinkle extra cheese and bacon on top for a steakhouse-style presentation.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people and takes about 35 minutes total—15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking and cooling. It’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, and summer barbecues.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving, and add a small spoonful of mayo or sour cream if the salad thickens after chilling. This recipe is not suitable for freezing due to the creamy dressing.
Variations and Customizations
Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Add diced cooked potatoes with their skins on, shredded cheese, bacon, and a dollop of sour cream for a “baked potato” vibe.
Spicy Steakhouse Salad
Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
Herb-Infused Potato Salad
Mix in fresh dill, parsley, or thyme for a herby twist.
Blue Cheese Version
Replace cheddar with crumbled blue cheese for a bold steakhouse flavor.
Greek Yogurt Swap
Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter, protein-rich version.
Roasted Garlic Potato Salad
Add roasted garlic to the dressing for a deeper, richer flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use red potatoes instead?
Yes, red potatoes hold their shape well and are a great choice for potato salads.
2. Should I peel the potatoes?
It’s up to you—peeled gives a smoother texture, while unpeeled adds a rustic feel.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling for several hours or overnight.
4. Can I skip the bacon?
Yes, but the smoky flavor really enhances the dish—try smoked paprika as a substitute.
5. Can I make it lighter?
Use light mayo and reduced-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
6. How long can it sit out at a picnic?
No longer than 2 hours at room temperature—keep it chilled until serving.
7. Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Diced celery, bell peppers, or peas add great crunch and color.
8. How do I make it extra creamy?
Mash a few of the potatoes gently into the dressing before mixing.
9. Can I use leftover roasted potatoes?
Definitely—they add extra flavor and texture to the salad.
10. What can I serve this with?
It pairs perfectly with grilled steak, burgers, BBQ chicken, or ribs.
Conclusion
Steakhouse Potato Salad is everything a great side dish should be—creamy, hearty, and loaded with bold flavor. With smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy sour cream dressing, it’s a rich, crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a cookout or alongside a juicy steak, this potato salad brings all the comfort and flair of a classic steakhouse straight to your table.
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