Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Salad – The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser!

This Bacon Ranch Potato Salad is a creamy, tangy, and smoky twist on the classic picnic staple! Loaded with crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a rich ranch dressing, this dish is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. The combination of savory bacon, fresh herbs, and zesty ranch creates a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Originating from the American South, where ranch dressing and bacon are beloved staples, this potato salad is a guaranteed hit. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with texture—making it a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a flavorful kick!

Why This Bacon Ranch Potato Salad Recipe Works

1. Simple, Accessible Ingredients: This recipe uses pantry-friendly ingredients like potatoes, bacon, and ranch dressing, making it easy to whip up without a trip to a specialty store.

2. Customizable to Taste: Love extra crunch? Add more bacon. Prefer a lighter version? Swap Greek yogurt for mayo. The recipe is flexible to suit your preferences.

3. Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals: The flavors meld beautifully when chilled overnight, making this an ideal dish for meal prep or gatherings.

What’s In Bacon Ranch Potato Salad?

The magic of this dish lies in its balanced mix of textures and flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and have a buttery texture.
• Bacon: Adds smoky, crispy richness—the star of the dish!
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, it binds everything together.
• Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: For extra creaminess and tang.
• Fresh Herbs: Chives and parsley add brightness.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper enhance the flavors.

How To Make Bacon Ranch Potato Salad

This recipe is straightforward but requires a few key steps for the best texture and flavor. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

1. Wash and cube the potatoes (peeling optional). Boil in salted water for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

1. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.

Step 3: Make the Ranch Dressing

1. In a bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, gently fold the potatoes, bacon, chopped herbs, and dressing until evenly coated.
2. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Sides for Bacon Ranch Potato Salad

Pair this salad with:

• Grilled Chicken: A protein-packed main that complements the creamy salad.
• Corn on the Cob: Adds sweetness and crunch.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy contrast.
• Burgers or Hot Dogs: Classic BBQ pairing!

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo?

Yes! Substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The bacon may soften over time.

Can I Make It Ahead?

Absolutely! Assemble the salad (minus herbs) up to 1 day in advance. Add fresh herbs before serving.

Other Recipes To Try

• Loaded Baked Potato Soup: All the flavors of a baked potato in a creamy, comforting soup.
• Greek Potato Salad: A Zesty, Mediterranean Twist on a Classic
• Avocado Ranch Pasta Salad: A creamy, tangy pasta salad with avocado and bacon.
• Caprese Potato Salad: A Fresh & Flavorful Summer Side
• Jalapeño Popper Potato Salad: Spicy, cheesy, and packed with jalapeño flavor.
• Dill Pickle Potato Salad: A briny, crunchy twist on the classic.

Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Salad

This Bacon Ranch Potato Salad is the ultimate side dish—creamy, smoky, and packed with flavor! Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a quick weeknight side. Easy to make and always a crowd favorite!

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Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 320kcal

Equipment

Medium Saucepan

Skillet

Whisk

Ingredients

• 3 lbs 1.4 kg Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
• 8 oz 225g bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp fresh chives chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions

• Cook Potatoes: Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (10-12 mins). Drain and cool.
• Crisp Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble.
• Make Dressing: Whisk ranch, mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
• Combine: Gently fold potatoes, bacon, herbs, and dressing in a large bowl.
• Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

• Potato Texture: Don’t overcook—keep them firm for the best texture.
• Bacon Tip: Bake bacon at 400°F (200°C) for even crispiness.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble without herbs up to 1 day ahead.
• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
• Extra Crunch: Add diced celery or pickles for texture.
• Bonus Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or diced avocado for extra indulgence!

Nutrition

Serving: 150g | Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 580mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 1.5mg

Enjoy your Bacon Ranch Potato Salad! Share your creations in the comments below!