Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Steakhouse Potato Salad is a classic side dish that delivers all the creamy comfort you expect with a touch of steakhouse flair. Perfect alongside grilled meats, barbecue, or roasted chicken, this salad is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Tender potatoes are tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, mustard, and sour cream, then elevated with crisp celery, red onion, and fresh herbs. The result is a salad that’s hearty yet refreshing, indulgent yet balanced. Its versatility makes it suitable for picnics, potlucks, or a weeknight dinner spread. Unlike many store-bought versions, this homemade potato salad has just the right balance of creaminess, tang, and crunch. With a flavor that pairs beautifully with a juicy steak or grilled burger, Steakhouse Potato Salad is the ultimate companion to any meal.
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Steakhouse Potato Salad – A Creamy, Hearty Side Dish
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful potato salad inspired by steakhouse sides, featuring tender potatoes, crispy bacon, cheese, and a creamy dressing with a tangy kick.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby red potatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add cooled potatoes to the dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Fold in bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Chill for at least 1 hour for flavors to develop, or serve slightly warm for a steakhouse-style experience.
Notes
- For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Best made ahead to allow flavors to meld together.
- Pairs perfectly with grilled steak, chicken, or ribs.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes – Starchy yet creamy, they form the hearty base of the salad.
Mayonnaise – Provides a rich, creamy texture that coats the potatoes perfectly.
Sour cream – Adds tang and lightness, balancing the heaviness of the mayo.
Dijon mustard – Brings sharpness and depth of flavor to the dressing.
Celery – Adds crunch and freshness for contrast.
Red onion – Offers a mild bite and vibrant color.
Hard-boiled eggs – Contribute creaminess and extra protein, making the salad more filling.
Fresh parsley – Infuses freshness and brightness throughout.
Chives – Mild and oniony, used as garnish for extra flavor.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that bring the dish together.
Paprika – A classic finishing touch for flavor and presentation.
Directions
Begin by boiling the potatoes until tender but not mushy. Drain and let cool slightly before peeling (if desired) and cutting into bite-sized chunks. Place the potato pieces in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to form the creamy dressing. Gently fold this dressing into the warm potatoes until evenly coated.
Add diced celery, red onion, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and parsley. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to mash the potatoes too much. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Chill the potato salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, sprinkle with paprika and garnish with fresh chives for a steakhouse-style presentation.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 people. Preparation requires about 15 minutes, boiling the potatoes takes 20 minutes, and chilling requires at least 1 hour. In total, expect about 1½ hours from start to finish, with most of the time being inactive chilling.
Storage/reheating
Store potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature. This dish is not suitable for freezing, as the dressing may separate once thawed.
Variations and Customizations
Bacon potato salad – Add crispy bacon crumbles for smoky richness.
Cheddar twist – Fold in shredded cheddar cheese for a steakhouse-style upgrade.
Pickle lover’s version – Add diced dill pickles or relish for tangy crunch.
Spicy kick – Mix in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat.
Herb variation – Use dill or tarragon in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Lighter version – Swap half the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt.
Loaded potato salad – Top with extra bacon, cheese, and chives for a “loaded baked potato” vibe.
No-egg option – Skip the hard-boiled eggs if you prefer a lighter salad.
Grainy mustard – Replace Dijon with whole-grain mustard for extra texture.
Roasted potatoes – Instead of boiling, roast the potatoes for deeper flavor.
FAQs
Can I make potato salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better when made a day in advance.
Which potatoes are best for potato salad?
Yukon Golds hold their shape well, while russets create a creamier texture.
Should I peel the potatoes?
It’s optional—peeled potatoes are softer, while skins add texture and nutrients.
Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, though it will give the salad a sweeter flavor.
How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?
Boil until just tender and avoid overmixing when adding the dressing.
Can I serve this warm?
Yes, though it’s traditionally chilled, warm potato salad can be comforting.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, shredded cheddar or crumbled blue cheese works wonderfully.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze potato salad?
No, freezing alters the texture of the potatoes and dressing.
How long can potato salad sit out?
No longer than 2 hours at room temperature for food safety.
Conclusion
Steakhouse Potato Salad is a creamy, hearty, and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, burgers, or barbecue. With tender potatoes, a tangy-smooth dressing, and crunchy add-ins, it offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Customizable to your liking and easy to prepare ahead of time, this recipe is a must-have for gatherings, cookouts, or weeknight meals. Whether you enjoy it classic or with creative add-ins like bacon and cheese, this potato salad guarantees steakhouse-level satisfaction at home.