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This cheddar bacon ranch potato salad brings together creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors in one crowd-pleasing side dish. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any gathering where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of ranch seasoning and crispy bacon with tender potatoes transforms a simple salad into a loaded, indulgent favorite.
I first brought this salad to a family picnic and it vanished before the main course was even served. Now it’s my go-to whenever I want to whip up something guaranteed to please a hungry crowd.
Ingredients
- Wellsley Farms red bliss potato salad: creamy base with just the right potato firmness so the salad holds together nicely
- Ranch seasoning packet: adds that classic cool, herby tang that makes this salad irresistible
- Shredded Wellsley Farms cheddar cheese: sharpness balances the creaminess and adds color
- Four slices of cooked, crumbled bacon: smoky crunch that makes every bite exciting, opting for thick-cut bacon gives you the best texture and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the entire container of potato salad with the ranch seasoning packet. Stir thoroughly so the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the creamy potatoes.
- Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Fold in three of the four bacon slices along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Mixing these in at this stage helps incorporate their flavors deeply into the salad.
- Chill It:
- Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. This resting time lets all the ingredients meld together, and the flavors deepen.
- Finish with Bacon:
- Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining bacon pieces on top for extra crunch and a beautiful presentation.
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Storage Tips
Keep the salad covered in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to prepare even earlier, mix everything except the final bacon topping, which you should add right before serving to keep it crispy. Do not freeze as the potatoes and mayo-based dressing do not freeze well and may become watery.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter option, try Greek yogurt mixed with ranch seasoning instead of the prepared potato salad for more control over creaminess and calories. Smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese can also work well if cheddar is not available or if you want a mellower cheese flavor. Turkey bacon is a good swap to lower fat but still get that bacon taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this potato salad alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs for a classic picnic spread. It also pairs well with fresh green salads to balance richness. For an extra pop of freshness, garnish with chopped chives or green onions before serving.
Cultural Context
Potato salad has long been a staple in American barbecues and picnics, evolving over the decades with regional twists. Adding bacon and ranch seasoning is a modern take that amps up the flavor profile, reflecting contemporary tastes that love bold, hearty ingredients. This style is especially popular in the Midwest and South where comfort food reigns.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of potatoes work best for this dish?
Red bliss potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape well and offer a creamy texture that complements the dressing.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely. Chilling the salad for several hours allows the flavors to meld and makes it perfect for parties or gatherings.
- → How should the bacon be cooked for best results?
Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble it to add a smoky, crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the creamy ingredients.
- → Is it possible to adjust the seasoning level?
Yes, you can vary the amount of ranch seasoning to suit your taste, either milder or more robust.
- → Can this dish be served cold or at room temperature?
It’s best served chilled to maintain its creamy texture and refreshing flavors, though it can be kept at room temperature for short periods.