Name: Cheesy Potato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs potatoes (peeled and diced); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

There's nothing quite like the creamy, comforting bite of Cheesy Potato Salad to elevate any gathering or weeknight meal. This dish combines tender potatoes, sharp cheddar, and a creamy dressing for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s just as irresistible as it is easy to make.

I first tried a version of this recipe at a summer BBQ, and it was love at first bite. Since then, I’ve perfected my own version, and it’s become a family staple—perfect for potlucks, picnics, and lazy weekends at home.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Salad

Get ready to meet your new favorite side dish! This Cheesy Potato Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and cheesy goodness.

First off, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you're whipping it up for a casual dinner or a festive occasion, it’s a guaranteed hit. Plus, the combination of potatoes and cheese makes it both comforting and indulgent.

It’s also super simple to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 30 minutes of active cooking time, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to make.

Lastly, it’s highly customizable! You can mix and match cheeses, toss in bacon or green onions, and even make it lighter with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. The possibilities are endless, so you’ll never get bored of this dish.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Potato Salad lies in its simple yet delicious ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe shine.

Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for this recipe. Their waxy texture holds up well during cooking, ensuring the salad stays creamy without falling apart.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds the perfect tangy kick to the salad. For the best flavor, grate your cheese fresh—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This duo creates a rich and creamy base for the dressing. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute part or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt.
Mustard: A touch of Dijon or yellow mustard balances the richness of the cheese and mayo with a subtle tang.
Add-ins: Crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or diced dill pickles are fantastic optional ingredients to add layers of flavor and texture.

No special equipment is required—just a large pot for boiling potatoes and a mixing bowl to bring it all together.

How To Make This Cheesy Potato Salad

Making Cheesy Potato Salad is as simple as boiling, mixing, and enjoying. Follow these easy steps to create this irresistible dish.

Prepare the Potatoes: Start by scrubbing your potatoes clean and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. No need to peel them unless you prefer a smoother texture. Boil the potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and a tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Stir in a pinch of salt, pepper, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.
Assemble the Salad: Add the cooked potatoes to the bowl along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently toss to coat the potatoes evenly with the dressing.
Optional Add-ins: If desired, mix in crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or diced pickles for extra flavor.
Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheese or green onions.

Storage Options

This Cheesy Potato Salad stores beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.

Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing: While freezing potato salad isn’t recommended due to the mayonnaise-based dressing, you can freeze the cooked potatoes separately and assemble the salad fresh when needed.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm potato salad, gently reheat individual servings in the microwave, though the cheese may melt further and change the texture slightly.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Different Cheeses: Swap sharp cheddar for Colby Jack, gouda, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
Healthier Options: Use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangy dressing.
Add Protein: Toss in diced ham, shredded chicken, or even hard-boiled eggs to make it a heartier side dish.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh dill, parsley, or paprika can add an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations and make this recipe truly your own. You can’t go wrong with potatoes and cheese!

Cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Potato Salad is the ultimate comfort food side dish. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ or enjoying it as a cozy family dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.