POTLUCK SIDE

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad

Tender potatoes folded with ranch, sharp cheddar, crisp bacon, green onions, and garlic.

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Cooking the potatoes just until tender helps them absorb dressing without breaking apart.

Jump to Recipe
Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings8
DifficultyEasy

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Ingredients

For the Potato Salad

  • 900g potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream for extra creaminess

Substitutions

  • Replace part or all of the ranch dressing with plain Greek yogurt plus extra ranch seasoning.
  • Use turkey bacon, or omit the bacon and add smoked paprika for a meat-free variation.
  • Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or another firm cheese with a similar texture.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Boil cubed potatoes in salted water for 10–12 minutes until tender. Drain and cool.

Cook the potatoes for Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, mix ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sour cream if using.

Make the dressing for Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad

Step 3: Combine

Add cooled potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions to the bowl.

Combine for Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad

Step 4: Chill

Gently toss until coated, then chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Top with extra bacon and green onions if desired.

Finished Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad ready to serve

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potato Salad within 2 hours in a covered container and use it within 3 days. Keep extra bacon and green onions separate so they stay crisp and fresh.

What to Serve With It

  • Grilled chicken or burgers
  • Corn on the cob
  • A green salad
  • Other picnic sides

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Cooking potatoes until they fall apart.
  • Adding watery mix-ins without draining them.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 330
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fat 21g
Sugar 3g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tender should the potatoes be?

A fork should enter the cubes easily, but the potatoes should still hold their shape when drained and folded with the dressing.

Can I make the potato salad ahead?

Yes. Prepare it up to one day ahead, then add reserved bacon and green onions shortly before serving for better texture.

Can Greek yogurt replace some of the ranch dressing?

Yes. Replace up to half of the ranch with plain Greek yogurt and add a little extra ranch seasoning to maintain the flavor.

About the Author

Written and edited by the FreshFork Recipes Team.

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