Name: Creamy Steakhouse Potato Salad for the Ultimate BBQ Side
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold or red potatoes); 4 large hard-boiled eggs (reduce for lighter option); 2 stalks celery (diced); 0.25 cup red onion (finely chopped); 6 slices cooked bacon (crumbled); 2 tbsp fresh chives (chopped); 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt); 0.5 cup sour cream (or extra yogurt); 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard); 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice); to taste salt; to taste black pepper; to taste garlic powder; to taste paprika

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As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling bacon filled the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy steakhouse. This is the magic behind my Steakhouse Potato Salad—a creamy, loaded dish that pairs crispy bacon with fluffy potatoes for an irresistible side. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, attending a potluck, or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Its make-ahead convenience is a game changer, offering flavors that deepen as they meld overnight. Plus, with its customizable options, it’s easy to cater to personal tastes, ensuring everyone at the table finds a reason to smile. Curious about how to create this crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why Is This Potato Salad So Irresistible?

Creamy, Loaded Goodness: You won’t believe the rich, creamy dressing that clings to every fluffy potato. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that’ll remind you of your favorite steakhouse.

Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for BBQs or potlucks, it pairs beautifully with grilled steak or BBQ chicken. It’s also ideal for weeknight dinners when comfort food is a must.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance to allow flavors to deepen overnight. Just store it in the fridge and serve when you’re ready!

Customizable to Your Taste: Love crunch? Add more celery or diced pickles. Want it lighter? Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. With a few tweaks, it’s your ultimate potato salad!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family gathering or a backyard BBQ, this dish guarantees compliments. Everyone will be reaching for seconds!

Steakhouse Potato Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Russet Potatoes – The fluffy base of the salad; feel free to substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs – Adds creaminess and protein; reduce the number for a lighter option.
• Celery – Provides a crunchy freshness; diced pickles can be a tangy alternative.
• Red Onion – Delivers a sharp bite; use sweet onion for a milder flavor.
• Cooked Bacon – Adds a delicious smokiness; omit for a vegetarian version.
• Fresh Chives – Introduces a mild onion flavor and adds a pop of color; parsley can also work.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – Forms a creamy rich base; opt for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
• Sour Cream – Enhances creaminess; you can substitute with extra yogurt if needed.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth; yellow mustard is a milder substitute.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance the salad; lemon juice is a great alternative.
• Seasonings (salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika) – Elevate the overall flavor; adjust to taste to find the perfect seasoning balance.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re just steps away from creating a delightful Steakhouse Potato Salad that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steakhouse Potato Salad

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Begin by placing 2 lbs of cubed russet potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold salted water and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool completely on a baking sheet or in a bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the potatoes cool, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a mixing bowl. Add in your favorite seasonings, such as salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Blend it all until smooth and creamy, creating the rich dressing that enhances your Steakhouse Potato Salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, 4 chopped hard-boiled eggs, 2 diced celery stalks, ¼ cup of finely chopped red onion, and 6 crumbled slices of cooked bacon. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped chives for added flavor. Gently fold the ingredients together, being careful not to mash the potatoes, ensuring a fluffy texture for your salad.

Step 4: Dress and Chill
Pour the prepared dressing over the potato mixture and gently fold everything together until well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious Steakhouse Potato Salad when served.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Steakhouse Potato Salad ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time and ensure dinner is hassle-free! You can boil and cube the potatoes and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before you assemble the salad. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy dressing and keep it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain the quality of your salad, be sure the potatoes are completely cooled before mixing them with the dressing, as this prevents a runny texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the cooled potatoes, chopped veggies, and dressing, and give it a gentle fold to keep that fluffy texture intact. This make-ahead method allows you to impress your guests with minimal effort when it’s time to enjoy!

How to Store and Freeze Steakhouse Potato Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the salad without bacon for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer to eat it warm, gently reheat in a microwave, adding a splash of sour cream to restore creaminess.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare potatoes and dressing separately, then mix before serving to achieve the best texture in your Steakhouse Potato Salad.

Expert Tips for Steakhouse Potato Salad

Cool Potatoes First: Allow potatoes to cool completely before mixing with the dressing to prevent a watery salad.
Gentle Mixing: Stir the salad ingredients gently to maintain the fluffy texture of the potatoes; rough handling can lead to a mushy salad.
Flavor Balance: For a sweeter note, add 1-2 teaspoons of sugar to your dressing, echoing traditional steakhouse recipes.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh chives for the best flavor. You can also experiment with herbs like parsley for added freshness.
Prep Ahead: To enhance flavors, prepare your Steakhouse Potato Salad a day in advance. The flavors deepen and become even more delightful with time!

Steakhouse Potato Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own; the possibilities are delicious!

Mayo-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with a blend of Greek yogurt and avocado for a creamy and lighter dressing.
Transforming this salad into a mayo-free delight not only lightens the dish but brings an excellent flavor twist with the avocado’s richness.
Deviled Egg Twist: Replace hard-boiled eggs with the filling from deviled eggs for a zesty spin.
To achieve this, mix the egg yolks with mustard and a touch of mayo before incorporating them into your mixture for a unique twist that adds a pop of flavor.
Veggie-Loaded: Toss in extra veggies like diced bell peppers, peas, or cucumbers to enhance crunch and nutrition.
These colorful add-ins not only bring a freshness to the salad but also turn it into a vibrant medley of flavors and textures.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley instead of chives for a fresh and aromatic experience.
Using herbs like dill can create a fantastic contrast to the creaminess, elevating the overall flavor profile in a delightful way.
Bacon Alternatives: Try crispy pancetta or turkey bacon for a different spin on that beloved crunch.
Both options maintain the smokiness while giving a fresh twist on classic bacon flavor, making each bite clear and crisp.
Sweet and Tangy: Stir in a handful of sweet pickle relish for an extra tangy sweet note.
This simple addition can create a wonderful flavor balance that resonates with those classic BBQ flavors everyone loves.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave heat.
A little bit of spice can really amplify this dish, making it an unforgettable side for any BBQ – just right for those who love a bit of fire.
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy sensation that complements the potatoes beautifully.
The melted, gooey texture of cheddar adds a rich layer to the salad, turning it into an even more luscious side dish.

For more refreshing ideas, check out my Smashed Potato Salad for another take on creamy comfort, or try the delightful Radish Salad Roasted for a crunchy, zesty twist!

What to Serve with Steakhouse Potato Salad

Pairing a delicious dish with this creamy delight can elevate any meal. Picture a feast filled with vibrant flavors and comforting textures that will leave everyone wanting more!

Grilled Steak: The savory, charred flavors of grilled steak perfectly complement the creamy richness of the potato salad, creating a classic BBQ experience.
BBQ Chicken: Juicy, smoky BBQ chicken brings a delightful contrast to the creamy salad, making for a harmonious summer meal that screams “get-together!”
Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds a crunchy, healthy element, balancing the dish’s richness with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw enhances the meal with its refreshing qualities, providing a beautiful textural contrast to the potato salad.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob brings a nostalgic summer vibe and pairs beautifully with the wholesome flavors of the salad.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, refreshing white wine complements the creamy dressing and smoky bacon, elevating your dining experience to a restaurant-level indulgence.
Chocolate Cake: End the meal on a sweet note with moist chocolate cake, offering a rich dessert that balances out the savory flavors of the main course.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea provide a zesty counterpart to the creamy flavors, making them perfect thirst-quenchers!

Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for the salad?
Absolutely! For the best potato salad, I recommend using Russet potatoes, known for their fluffy texture. Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also work well, offering a slightly different flavor and creaminess. Just look for potatoes that are firm with no dark spots or blemishes!

How should I store leftovers?
Very! To keep your Steakhouse Potato Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You’ll find that it gradually gets tastier as the flavors meld together, making it a delightful option for leftovers!

Can I freeze Steakhouse Potato Salad?
Certainly! For long-term storage, I suggest freezing the salad without the bacon for up to 2 months. To do this, spoon the salad into a resealable freezer bag, pressing out excess air before sealing. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What if my potatoes become mushy when mixing?
Oh no! If you find your potatoes have turned mushy, the key is to handle them gently. When mixing, use a folding motion instead of stirring vigorously. To avoid this next time, ensure that the potatoes are completely cooled before adding the dressing, which helps maintain their structure.

Are there any dietary modifications I should consider?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for a crowd with dietary restrictions, you can make a vegetarian version by simply omitting the bacon. Also, for those with egg allergies, feel free to leave out the hard-boiled eggs, and consider using an alternative dressing like a mayo-based vegan option to keep the creamy texture intact.

Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Very much so! Preparing your Steakhouse Potato Salad a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply keep the potatoes and dressing separate until about an hour before serving to maintain optimal texture and freshness!