Name: Creamy Steakhouse Potato Salad That Steals the Show
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds red potatoes (can substitute with Yukon Gold); 1 cup mayonnaise (can replace with Greek yogurt); 1/2 cup sour cream (can substitute with additional mayo or yogurt); 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (can use lemon juice); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (yellow mustard can be used); 1 medium red onion (can use green onions); 6 slices crispy bacon (omit for vegetarian version); 1 cup cheddar cheese (can substitute with Monterey Jack); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (can substitute with chives or dill); 1 cup dill pickles (can use relish); to taste salt; to taste pepper

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood under the warm summer sun, the aroma of sizzling steaks mingled with laughter and chatter, launching my taste buds into a delightful frenzy. That’s when I realized that every BBQ or picnic deserves a standout companion—enter my Creamy Steakhouse Potato Salad. This side dish not only boasts tender, buttery red potatoes bathed in a zesty Dijon mustard dressing, but it also incorporates savory favorites like crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy dill pickles, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings, this creamy concoction is quick to whip up and promises smiles all around. So, are you ready to elevate your next meal with a taste of steakhouse comfort?

Why is this potato salad irresistible?

Creaminess takes center stage with a rich dressing that envelops tender potatoes and crispy bacon. Quick and Easy to prepare, you’ll have this dish ready in under 30 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones. Versatile by design, it pairs effortlessly with grilled meats or stands alone as a delicious treat. Crowd-Pleaser status is guaranteed, making it a must-have for potlucks and summer picnics. Plus, you can easily customize it with different cheese or spices. This Steakhouse Potato Salad is sure to steal the show at your next gathering!

Steakhouse Potato Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Red Potatoes – They provide a soft, buttery texture that holds its shape well; perfect for potato salad. Can substitute with Yukon Gold for a slightly creamier texture.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and depth to the dressing; can replace with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
• Sour Cream – Enhances the creaminess and tanginess of the dish; can substitute with additional mayo or full-fat yogurt.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance the richness; can use lemon juice in a pinch.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a hint of spice and complexity to the dressing; yellow mustard can be used for a milder flavor.
• Red Onion – Adds a sharp flavor and crunch; green onions can be used for a milder taste.
• Crispy Bacon – Delivers a savory crunch; omit for a vegetarian version or use tempeh bacon as a substitute.
• Cheddar Cheese – Offers a rich, cheesy flavor; can substitute with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and color; can substitute with chives or dill for different flavor notes.
• Dill Pickles – Provide a tangy crunch; relish can be used as a substitute.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning the salad; adjust to taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Steakhouse Potato Salad

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Begin by placing the cubed red potatoes into a large pot and covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil. Cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, or until fork-tender, meaning they should easily break apart when poked. Once ready, drain the potatoes in a colander and set them aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Ensure there are no lumps, and the dressing is well combined. This dressing serves as the heart of your Steakhouse Potato Salad, so take a moment to taste it and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Once the potatoes have cooled to room temperature, carefully add them to the bowl with the dressing. Then, incorporate the diced red onion, crispy bacon pieces, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and diced dill pickles into the mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing without mashing the potatoes.

Step 4: Chill the Salad
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the contents to an airtight container. Refrigerate the Steakhouse Potato Salad for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This chilling period enhances the salad’s taste, so it’s worth the wait! If you can, let it sit for up to 4 hours for an even richer flavor.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving
Before serving, give the potato salad a gentle stir to refresh the overall creaminess. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if necessary. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with freshly chopped chives or a sprinkle of additional parsley. Now, your Creamy Steakhouse Potato Salad is ready to dazzle at your next BBQ or picnic gathering!

Expert Tips for Steakhouse Potato Salad

Chill Time: Allow the salad to chill for 1-4 hours before serving. This enhances the flavors and avoids a too-thick texture.
Creaminess Control: To suit your preference, feel free to adjust the creaminess by adding more sour cream or mayo to the Steakhouse Potato Salad.
Keep the Skin: Leaving some potato skin on not only keeps nutrients but also adds a rustic feel to your dish.
Season Smartly: Taste your dressing before mixing in the potatoes to ensure the seasoning is just right; it’s easier to adjust at this stage.
Customization: Experiment with different cheeses or add jalapeños for a spicy kick—make the dish your own while keeping that classic steakhouse flair!

Steakhouse Potato Salad Variations

Customize your Steakhouse Potato Salad to tantalize your taste buds and make it your own.

Dairy-Free: Swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream for a mix of avocado and coconut yogurt for a creamy alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of Sriracha to the dressing for an exciting heat that’s sure to wake up your taste buds. Trust me, it’s a flavor bomb!
Veggie Delight: Mix in diced bell peppers and shredded carrots for a pop of color and crunch, transforming your potato salad into a garden of flavors.
Herb-Infused: Replace parsley with fresh dill or cilantro for a twist that brings a fragrant freshness, making this salad even more vibrant.
Sweet & Savory: Choose sweet pickles instead of dill pickles for a surprising sweet contrast that complements the smoky bacon beautifully.
Texture Twist: Toss in some roasted garlic cloves for a smoky depth and creamy texture that adds an unexpected richness to the salad.
Protein Boost: For added protein, mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas, making it a heartier dish while maintaining that classic vibe.
Gourmet Style: Use crumbled feta cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy twist that elevates the whole salad. The zest of the feta beautifully melds with the Dijon dressing.

With these variations, feel free to explore and enjoy every bite of your personalized Steakhouse Potato Salad. It’s a chance to savor home-cooked comfort and share delightful moments with friends and family! Plus, don’t forget to check out our classic BBQ Tips for pairing your perfect side dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Steakhouse Potato Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and cooling the potatoes, mixing the dressing, and combining all the ingredients. Simply refrigerate the salad in an airtight container to keep everything fresh. To maintain quality, ensure it’s well-contained to prevent the potatoes from soaking up too much dressing. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir the salad gently, adding more mayo or sour cream if necessary for moisture. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a delicious side dish with minimal effort on the day of your BBQ or picnic!

How to Store and Freeze Steakhouse Potato Salad

Fridge: Store the potato salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If it thickens, mix in a bit of extra mayonnaise before serving.

Freezer: Although not ideal for freezing due to the creamy elements, you can freeze leftover dressing (not the salad). Use within 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating: If chilled for too long, bring it back to room temperature gently before serving. This helps restore its creamy texture.

Make-Ahead: For optimal flavor, prepare your Steakhouse Potato Salad a few hours in advance, allowing it to chill and blend the ingredients beautifully.

What to Serve with Creamy Steakhouse Potato Salad

Every bite of this creamy delight deserves a perfect partner to create a well-rounded meal.

Grilled Steak: The savory flavors of grilled steak harmonize beautifully with the creamy potato salad, creating a true steakhouse experience.
BBQ Chicken: Juicy, smoky BBQ chicken brings out the richness of the salad, making for a delightful summer feast.
Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the potato salad wonderfully.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob adds a delightful texture and sweetness that perfectly complements the flavors in the salad.
Baked Beans: These hearty, sweet beans bring a rustic charm to the table, enhancing the comfort food vibes of the meal.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, caramelized veggie skewers add color and flavor while giving a fresh element that pairs nicely with the creaminess.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio refreshes the palette, pairing beautifully with the richness of the steakhouse potato salad.
Lemonade: A refreshing pitcher of homemade lemonade adds brightness and a sweet-tart contrast to the rich, creamy dish.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm, gooey cookies provide a nostalgic, sweet finish that leaves everyone smiling!

Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe red potatoes?
When selecting red potatoes, look for smooth skins without dark spots or blemishes. The potatoes should feel firm and should have a vibrant color. Avoid wrinkled potatoes, as they may be old or dehydrated, which can affect the overall texture of your potato salad.

How should I store leftover Steakhouse Potato Salad?
Store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you notice that the salad has thickened, simply stir in a little extra mayonnaise before serving to restore its creamy consistency and enhance the flavors.

Can I freeze Steakhouse Potato Salad?
While it’s not ideal to freeze potato salad due to its creamy ingredients, you can freeze leftover dressing separately. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge and mix it into freshly cooked potatoes for a delicious rebirth of flavors!

What if my potato salad is too thick?
If your salad turns out too thick, don’t fret! Just add a tablespoon of extra mayonnaise or sour cream at a time until you achieve your desired creaminess. Mix it well after each addition to ensure everything is evenly cohesive.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing this for guests with dietary restrictions, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version. For a vegetarian alternative, simply omit the crispy bacon or replace it with tempeh bacon. Always check for possible allergies such as dairy or gluten if you plan to serve it to a wider audience.

How can I enhance the flavor of the Steakhouse Potato Salad?
To elevate the flavors of your potato salad, let it chill for at least an hour before serving, but if you can manage, overnight chilling is even better! This allows the dressing and ingredients to meld beautifully. For a spicy touch, try adding chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the dressing for a delightful kick!