When the warm sun begins to linger just a little longer in the evening sky, I know it’s time for outdoor gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. I’ve often found myself craving a side dish that not only complements the main event but also steals the show. Enter the irresistible dill pickle bacon potato salad—a delightful twist on a classic favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This dish combines tender Yukon Gold potatoes with crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a zingy dill pickle flavor, creating a creamy, crowd-pleasing salad that’s as easy to whip up as it is enjoyable to eat. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or attending a potluck, this bacon potato salad promises to be the highlight of your table, bringing joy and comfort in every bite. Let’s dive into the making of this delightful dish that’s destined to become a family favorite!
Why is Bacon Potato Salad a Must-Make?
Irresistible flavor: This creamy bacon potato salad delivers a mouthwatering combination of crispy bacon and zesty dill pickles that elevate it beyond ordinary side dishes.
Quick and easy: Made with simple ingredients and a straightforward process, even novice cooks can create a dish that impresses.
Family favorite: Its comfort food appeal makes it a hit at gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile and a full stomach.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or bringing a dish to a potluck, this salad fits seamlessly into any menu.
Make ahead: You can prepare it a day in advance, saving you time and stress, allowing you to enjoy the festivities with your guests.
Bacon Potato Salad Ingredients
• Create this delightful dish with ease!
For the Salad
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – The ideal base, they’re creamy and don’t require peeling, making prep a breeze.
- Bacon – Freshly cooked offers a robust, savory flavor; avoid pre-packaged options for the best taste.
- Mayonnaise – Provides rich creaminess, acting as the main dressing component for this bacon potato salad.
- Warm Bacon Grease – Enhances the flavor throughout; substitute with extra mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Dill Pickle Relish – Adds zesty brightness; freshly chopped pickles can serve as an alternative if desired.
- Dried Dill – Infuses a delightful herbal note; feel free to switch to fresh dill for even more vibrant flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Maximizes taste; adjust according to your flavor preferences.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds the necessary seasoning; adjust to your liking.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs – Contributes protein and creaminess, roughly chopped for texture.
- Green Onions – Provides a fresh crunch and a mild onion flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
How to Make Bacon Potato Salad
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Boil potatoes: Place Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil them until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and let them cool completely before handling.
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Cook bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Once done, reserve 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon grease for later.
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Mix dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, warm bacon grease, dill pickle relish, dried dill, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely blended.
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Combine ingredients: Add the cooled potatoes, roughly chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions to the mixing bowl. Gently stir everything together until well incorporated.
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Serve or refrigerate: Dish out immediately for a warm side or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
Optional: Top with chopped fresh dill for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bacon Potato Salad?
When you’re ready to create a meal that’s memorable, consider these delightful pairings that bring out the best in your creamy salad.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein element that complements the creamy potato salad beautifully.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, tender corn is the quintessential summer side, offering a crunchy contrast to the salad’s richness and enhancing the seasonal vibe.
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BBQ Ribs: The smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ ribs harmonize with the zesty dill pickle notes, making your picnic spread a true feast.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy, creamy side introduces a refreshing balance, providing a lighter texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich bacon potato salad.
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Baked Beans: The sweet and savory notes of baked beans merge effortlessly with the salad, creating a comforting, hearty meal perfect for gatherings.
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Lemonade: A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade brings a zesty, refreshing flair that brightens the palate and complements the dish’s flavors.
Each of these sides adds a unique experience to your meal, enhancing the joy and warmth they bring to your table.
Expert Tips for Bacon Potato Salad
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Perfectly Cooked Potatoes: Avoid overcooking the Yukon Gold potatoes; they should be tender yet firm enough to hold their shape in the salad.
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Cool Before Mixing: Always let the bacon cool before adding it to the salad, ensuring a pleasant texture and avoiding mushiness.
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Adjust for Flavor: Feel free to modify the amount of dill pickle relish to match your desired level of tanginess and zest in your bacon potato salad.
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Fresh Herbs: Opt for fresh dill over dried for a more vibrant flavor profile; it can truly elevate the taste of this comforting dish.
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Storage Tips: This salad can be made a day ahead; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enhance flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Potato Salad
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This bacon potato salad improves in flavor as it chills, making it even more delightful for future meals.
Freezer: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month; however, the texture may change. If freezing, consider omitting the mayonnaise and adding it after thawing for better consistency.
Reheating: When ready to eat, let thaw in the fridge overnight and serve cold. Alternatively, you can gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of mayonnaise to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this salad straight from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Bacon Potato Salad Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this delightful recipe to match your tastes and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise for a completely dairy-free version.
- Herb-Infused: Swap dried dill for fresh dill, releasing an even brighter flavor that enhances the entire dish.
- Veggie Crunch: Add diced celery or bell peppers for an additional crunchy texture that complements the creamy ingredients beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to add some heat and excitement to your salad!
- Red Potato Twist: Use red potatoes instead of Yukon Gold for a slightly different taste and a pop of color—simply scrub, chop, and boil!
- Greek Vibes: Mix in crumbled feta cheese and sliced olives for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor that will wow your guests.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the dressing for a warm, smoky undertone that elevates the dish.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans to provide a delightful crunch and added nutty richness.
Let your creativity shine as you craft your version of this beloved salad!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Potato Salad are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance by boiling the Yukon Gold potatoes and cooking the bacon, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can create the dressing (mayonnaise, warm bacon grease, dill pickle relish, and seasonings) and keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain optimal quality, make sure the potatoes are completely cooled before mixing, as this prevents sogginess. When ready to serve, combine all the components and enjoy a delicious, crowd-pleasing side that tastes just as fresh as if made that day!
Bacon Potato Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe Yukon Gold potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for Yukon Gold potatoes that have smooth skin, are firm to the touch, and free of dark spots or blemishes. The ideal potatoes should be medium-sized, with a slightly golden hue. Avoid any that feel soft or have wrinkled skin.
How should I store leftover bacon potato salad?
Very simply! Place the potato salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness. The flavors will continue to meld and enhance, making it even tastier when you’re ready to enjoy leftovers.
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Can I freeze bacon potato salad?
Yes, but with a caveat! You can freeze it for up to 1 month. However, the texture may change once thawed. It’s best to freeze it without the mayonnaise; after thawing overnight in the refrigerator, mix in fresh mayonnaise for the richest flavor and texture. If you prefer a simpler process, try opting for a basic potato and bacon mixture before freezing.
What if my potatoes become mushy during boiling?
Common issue! If your potatoes turn mushy, it’s usually because they’ve been boiled too long. The key is to boil them just until fork-tender, which usually takes about 10 minutes. If you do find yourself with mushy potatoes, you can still salvage the salad by adding more diced veggies or even croutons to add texture!
Is there a way to make this salad allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! To make this bacon potato salad more allergy-friendly, consider substituting the mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative or a homemade dressing made from avocado or yogurt. You can skip the bacon altogether for a vegetarian option and still pack it with flavor by using smoked paprika or liquid smoke instead. Also, be sure to check all labels to accommodate specific dietary needs for any specific allergens.
Can my dog have bacon potato salad?
While small amounts of cooked plain potatoes and bacon may be safe for dogs, it’s best to avoid giving your dog bacon potato salad. The mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, and salt can be harmful to pets. If you want to share, prepare a small portion without those ingredients as a special treat!
Creamy Bacon Potato Salad with Tangy Dill Pickles
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Place Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil them until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and let them cool completely before handling.
- In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Once done, reserve 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon grease for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, warm bacon grease, dill pickle relish, dried dill, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely blended.
- Add the cooled potatoes, roughly chopped hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions to the mixing bowl. Gently stir everything together until well incorporated.
- Dish out immediately for a warm side or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.