Oven-Baked Creamy Bacon Potato Salad

Hearty Baked Potato Salad Recipe

Description

Embark on a culinary adventure with this Hearty Baked Potato Salad, a delightful twist on the classic potato salad that you typically encounter at picnics and barbecues. This version, inspired by a recipe from Taste of Home magazine, brings a warm, comforting element to the table by incorporating oven-baked potatoes. While I haven’t had the opportunity to try it yet, the combination of tender potatoes, savory bacon, and a creamy, flavorful dressing promises a dish that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering, this potato salad is both satisfying and wholesome. The preparation time is estimated to ensure you can plan your cooking schedule effectively.

Recipe Details

• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Category: Low Protein
• Keywords: Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
• Calories: 269.3 per serving
• Fat Content: 12.2g
• Saturated Fat Content: 4.2g
• Cholesterol Content: 19.5mg
• Sodium Content: 427.6mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 34g
• Fiber Content: 3.3g
• Sugar Content: 3.6g
• Protein Content: 6.5g

Ingredients

• 8 medium-sized potatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cups mayonnaise
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

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   • In a large saucepan, cover the potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, then drain them thoroughly.
   • Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before cutting them into 1-1/2 inch chunks.

2. Assemble the Salad:

   • Spread the potato chunks evenly in a 13x9x2 inch baking pan.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the chopped onion, fresh parsley, mayonnaise, and plain yogurt. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
   • Pour the mayonnaise and yogurt mixture over the potatoes in the baking pan, spreading it evenly to cover all the potato chunks.

3. Add Bacon and Paprika:

   • Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top of the potato mixture, followed by a generous dusting of paprika to add a touch of color and extra flavor.

4. Bake the Salad:

   • Cover the baking pan with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out during baking.
   • Place the covered pan in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 30 minutes.
   • After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to allow the top to become golden and slightly crisp.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • This baked potato salad can be served warm, making it a comforting side dish for any meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 269.3
• Fat Content: 12.2g
• Saturated Fat Content: 4.2g
• Cholesterol Content: 19.5mg
• Sodium Content: 427.6mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 34g
• Fiber Content: 3.3g
• Sugar Content: 3.6g
• Protein Content: 6.5g

Tips for Perfecting Your Hearty Baked Potato Salad

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, use medium-starch potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape well after boiling and baking, offering a nice bite without becoming too mushy.
2. Uniform Chopping: Cutting the potatoes into evenly sized chunks ensures they cook evenly. This consistency helps in achieving the perfect texture throughout the salad.
3. Enhance the Flavor: For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing. This will add a tangy contrast to the creamy mayonnaise and yogurt mixture.
4. Crispy Bacon: For an added crunch, cook the bacon until it’s extra crispy before crumbling it over the salad. The crispiness will add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy potatoes.
5. Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness to the salad. You can also experiment with other herbs like dill or chives for additional flavor nuances.
6. Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Follow all the steps except the final baking. Cover and refrigerate the assembled salad. When ready to serve, bake as directed, allowing a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

Variations to Try

1. Cheesy Twist: Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mayonnaise and yogurt mixture for a cheesy baked potato salad. Top with extra cheese before baking for a gooey, delicious finish.
2. Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can also include a handful of chopped nuts for added texture.
3. Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the dressing. This will give your potato salad a spicy twist.
4. Greek Yogurt Substitute: For a healthier version, substitute the plain yogurt with Greek yogurt. It adds extra protein and a tangy flavor without compromising the creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

This Hearty Baked Potato Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some ideas to inspire your menu:

1. Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken breasts or thighs for a balanced and satisfying meal. The smoky flavor of the grilled chicken complements the creamy potato salad perfectly.
2. Steak: A juicy steak, whether grilled or pan-seared, pairs well with this potato salad. The richness of the meat and the heartiness of the potatoes make for a robust and filling dinner.
3. Burgers: Whether beef, turkey, or veggie burgers, this baked potato salad is an excellent side dish. It adds a comforting element to a casual burger night.
4. Seafood: Try serving this salad with grilled or baked fish, such as salmon or tilapia. The lightness of the fish balances the richness of the potato salad.

Conclusion

The Hearty Baked Potato Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that brings a new dimension to traditional potato salad. With its creamy dressing, flavorful bacon, and tender potatoes, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests at your next gathering, this baked potato salad is a winning choice. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and serving suggestions to make it your own. Happy cooking!