Loaded Potato Salad Recipe With Mayonnaise: Creamy Chive and Bacon Delight

This potato salad elevates the classic with bold, creamy indulgence. A perfect balance of smooth mayonnaise, crisp bacon, and fresh chives creates a side dish that’s rich yet refreshing.

The secret lies in the texture—tender potatoes hold their shape while absorbing just enough dressing. Each bite delivers that signature creamy consistency with bursts of smoky, savory, and herbaceous flavor.

Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a standalone lunch, this version proves potato salad can be both comforting and impressive. Serve chilled to let the flavors fully meld.

Simple ingredients, expert timing, and a touch of patience deliver a dish that disappears first at every gathering.

Ingredients for Loaded Potato Salad Recipe with Mayonnaise

Tender potatoes and rich dressing come together for a creamy, crowd-pleasing classic.

The potato choice is critical. Yukon Golds offer the perfect balance of waxy texture and buttery flavor—avoid russets, which fall apart. For the bacon, thick-cut hickory-smoked from Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s provides superior smokiness. The mayonnaise should be full-fat (Hellmann’s or Duke’s are reliable) to achieve that signature creamy consistency without thinning.

No bacon? Smoked paprika or tempeh bacon can mimic the depth. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt at half the amount replaces mayonnaise. Red onion too sharp? Swap for scallions. The celery is non-negotiable for crunch, but if you’re in a pinch, diced bell pepper works. Pickle relish haters can leave it out—sweetness comes from the dressing too.

Best made ahead—flavors meld overnight. Keeps 4-5 days in the fridge, but the bacon loses crispness. Potatoes discolor if left unpeeled, so work quickly. Serve chilled for optimal texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Loaded Potato Salad With Mayonnaise

This method ensures a creamy, well-balanced dish with perfect texture and flavor every time.

Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Potatoes

Place the 2 lb Yukon Gold Potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add 1 tablespoon of the 1.5 tsp Kosher Salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 12-15 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.

Drain the potatoes immediately and let them cool slightly. While still warm, peel and cube them evenly into ½-inch pieces. I recommend doing this while they’re warm—they absorb the dressing better. Spread them on a baking sheet to cool completely, which prevents the salad from becoming gummy.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Prepare the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the 8 slices Bacon until crispy and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then chop into ½-inch pieces once cooled. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat for added flavor.

While the bacon cooks, finely dice the 0.5 whole Red Onion and 2 pieces Celery. The onion should be small enough to distribute evenly without overpowering any single bite. Finely chop the 0.5 cup Fresh Chives and peel and chop the 4 whole Hard-Boiled Eggs into ¼-inch pieces.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the 1.5 cups Mayonnaise, 0.5 cup Sour Cream, 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard, 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar, remaining ½ tsp Kosher Salt, and 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper until smooth. For a touch of sweetness, stir in the 2 tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish.

The vinegar brightens the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream, while the mustard adds depth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, but remember the bacon and potatoes will add their own saltiness.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Add the cooled potatoes to the dressing and fold gently with a spatula to coat evenly. Avoid overmixing to keep the potatoes intact. Next, fold in the chopped bacon, red onion, celery, hard-boiled eggs, and half of the chives. The eggs should remain in visible chunks for texture contrast.

Let the salad sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The potatoes will absorb some of the dressing, creating a creamier consistency. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or milk, but I find this ratio perfect for serving immediately or chilling.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors develop fully. This chilling time is essential for the salad to reach its ideal texture and taste. Just before serving, give it one final gentle stir and garnish with the remaining fresh chives.

The finished dish should have a creamy, well-coated appearance with visible bits of bacon, egg, and celery throughout. Serve chilled or at room temperature—both are excellent, but chilled allows the flavors to shine brightest.

Best Sauces and Condiments for This Recipe

Creamy Dressing Boosters

For extra richness, fold in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or 1 tbsp buttermilk to the dressing. This adds tang without thinning the consistency. I love how this tweak makes the flavors pop even more. 💛

Smoky Depth Enhancers

A dash of smoked paprika (½ tsp) or liquid smoke (¼ tsp) deepens the bacon’s flavor. Stir these into the dressing before combining with potatoes. The smokiness complements the creamy base beautifully.

Herb Infusions

Fresh dill (2 tbsp chopped) or tarragon (1 tbsp chopped) adds a bright, aromatic note. Mix these into the dressing for a gourmet twist. These herbs pair especially well with the chives.

Spicy Kick Options

For heat lovers, add 1 tsp sriracha or ½ tsp cayenne to the dressing. I prefer hot sauce because it blends seamlessly. A pinch of chipotle powder also adds smoky heat. 🔥

Umami Rich Additions

Boost savory depth with 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce or 1 tbsp grated Parmesan. These ingredients enhance the bacon’s flavor without overpowering. Stir them into the dressing for a subtle but noticeable upgrade.

Sweet and Tangy Twists

Swap the pickle relish for 2 tbsp bread and butter pickles or add 1 tbsp honey mustard. These options sweeten the dressing while keeping the tangy balance. The honey mustard also adds a glossy sheen.

Frequently Asked Questions