Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe
Introduction
Steakhouse Potato Salad is a creamy, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or backyard barbecues. Made with tender red potatoes, crispy bacon, and a tangy dressing, this salad delivers a satisfying mix of textures and tastes. It’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients
- 2 lbs red potatoes, cubed
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 5 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- ¼ cup chopped dill pickles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chives or green onions
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the cubed red potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool to room temperature to keep the salad creamy.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and creamy. You may use a hand mixer for an extra-smooth dressing.
- Step 3: Add the cooled potatoes, chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, and dill pickles to the dressing. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to mash the potatoes.
- Step 4: Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind the bacon and pickles add saltiness, so add salt gradually and taste as you go.
- Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to thicken slightly.
- Step 6: Before serving, garnish with chopped chives or green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. Optionally, sprinkle paprika for added color.
Tips & Variations
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of red potatoes for a creamier texture if preferred.
- For extra crunch, add diced celery or bell peppers.
- Substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika to add a smoky depth.
- Make the salad a day ahead to deepen the flavors, just give it a good stir before serving.
Storage
Store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, stir well and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for the best flavor. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become watery.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, while red potatoes are preferred for their firmness and thin skins, Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes can also work well. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets as they may become too mushy.
How do I prevent the potato salad from becoming watery?
Make sure to cool the potatoes completely before mixing with the dressing. Using room temperature or warm potatoes can cause the mayo-based dressing to separate and become runny. Also, avoid over-mixing to keep the salad texture intact.
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Steakhouse Potato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Steakhouse Potato Salad is a creamy, flavorful side dish featuring tender red potatoes mixed with a rich dressing of mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard, complemented by crunchy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy dill pickles, and fresh herbs. Perfect for gatherings or to accompany hearty meals, this classic potato salad balances creamy textures with savory and tangy notes for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lbs red potatoes, cubed
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Mix-ins
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 5 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- ¼ cup chopped dill pickles
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped chives or green onions
- Optional: paprika for color
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the cubed red potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool to room temperature to prevent the dressing from becoming runny and to keep the salad creamy.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may use a hand mixer for an extra smooth texture.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled potatoes, chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped dill pickles into the dressing bowl. Stir gently to combine without mashing the potatoes, keeping their shape intact.
- Season to Taste: Season the salad with salt and black pepper as needed. Taste before adding salt, considering the saltiness added by the bacon and pickles.
- Chill: Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to thicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with chopped chives or sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Optionally sprinkle paprika for added color and presentation.
Notes
- Cool potatoes completely before mixing to prevent a runny dressing.
- Be gentle when stirring to keep potatoes from breaking down.
- Adjust seasoning after chilling as flavors develop over time.
- This salad can be made a day ahead for more flavor depth.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: potato salad, steakhouse potato salad, creamy potato salad, red potatoes, picnic side dish, classic potato salad, bacon potato salad

