Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that truly steals the spotlight, look no further than this Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of creamy textures, tangy pickles, savory bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese that come together like magic in every bite. Whether you’re grilling out, hosting a summer picnic, or simply craving a rich, tasty accompaniment, this salad checks all the boxes for an unforgettable addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple at first glance, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the flavor and texture that make this dish so special. From the tender red potatoes to the punchy Dijon mustard, every component brings something unique to the table.

• 2 lbs red potatoes: Their waxy texture holds up perfectly, keeping the salad from turning mushy.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds rich creaminess that ties all the flavors together.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Provides a subtle tang that brightens the dressing.
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Gives a slight acidity that balances the richness.
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard: Infuses a gentle sharpness and depth to the salad.
• 1 small red onion, chopped: Offers a crisp, slightly sweet bite that contrasts beautifully with creamy elements.
• 5 strips cooked bacon, crumbled: Delivers irresistible smoky, salty crunch.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings bold flavor and a touch of gooeyness in every forkful.
• ¼ cup chopped parsley: Adds a fresh herbaceous note and vibrant green color.
• ¼ cup chopped dill pickles: Provides zesty, crunchy bursts that brighten the palate.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Optional: chives or green onions: Perfect for garnishing with a fresh, mild onion flavor.

How to Make Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish

Step 1: Cook the potatoes

Start by placing your cubed red potatoes into a large pot filled with cold water. Bring this to a boil over medium-high heat and cook them until they are fork-tender, usually around 10 to 15 minutes. This step is vital because perfectly cooked potatoes provide the foundation for your creamy salad without becoming mushy. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature to prevent your dressing from turning watery.

Step 2: Prepare the dressing

While the potatoes are cooling, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a large mixing bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You want a luscious base that will coat every piece of potato, providing that signature creamy texture that makes this Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish so irresistible.

Step 3: Combine the ingredients

Gently fold in the cooled potatoes along with finely chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, and chopped dill pickles into the dressing. Stir carefully to ensure all components are thoroughly mixed without breaking down the potatoes, preserving the salad’s beautiful texture. Every bite should offer a delightful assortment of flavors and textures.

Step 4: Season to taste

Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Since bacon and pickles carry a natural saltiness, it’s smart to taste before adding too much salt. Adjusting the seasoning to your preference is key to achieving the perfect balance in this Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish.

Step 5: Chill

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a tight lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps the dressing thicken slightly, giving you that ideal creamy consistency that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with chopped chives or sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. If you want, add a dash of paprika on top for an extra touch of visual appeal. This final flourish elevates the presentation and completes your Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish perfectly.

How to Serve Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped chives or green onions add a bright, mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the salad, while a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few extra bacon crumbles create a visual and taste appeal that guests love.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with hearty mains like grilled steaks, ribs, or barbecued chicken. The creamy, tangy flavors of the potato salad cut through the richness of grilled meats, making it a classic combo that will never disappoint at any cookout.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in hollowed-out tomatoes or lettuce cups to add freshness and flair. You can also layer the salad in a clear glass bowl with extra herbs on top for an inviting presentation that showcases all the vibrant ingredients.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying the next day’s lunch.

Freezing

This potato salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, not frozen. Freezing can cause the potatoes and creamy dressing to separate and lose their ideal texture, so it’s not recommended if you want to keep that perfect creamy consistency.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled potato salad, it’s best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a warmer dish, allow it to sit out for 15-20 minutes before eating; reheating in a microwave isn’t advised as it can break down the textures.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! While red potatoes are ideal for their waxy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets since they tend to fall apart in salads.

Is there a way to make this salad lighter?

Yes! You can substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat option that still keeps the salad creamy and delicious.

How far in advance can I prepare this potato salad?

This salad can be made up to 24 hours ahead. Just give it a good stir before serving and add any fresh garnishes last minute.

Can I add boiled eggs to this salad?

Definitely! Chopped boiled eggs add extra protein and richness, making the salad even more hearty, perfect for a filling picnic dish.

What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?

White vinegar or lemon juice can be used as substitutes, though apple cider vinegar adds a subtle fruity tang that really enhances the overall flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Steakhouse Potato Salad: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish is a true crowd-pleaser that brings soul-warming comfort and bold flavors to the table. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch for your next meal—you’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire. Once you taste this crowd-favorite, it’s hard to go back to ordinary potato salads!

Print