Cheesy Potato Salad Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting, creamy goodness of Cheesy Potato Salad to elevate your next barbecue or potluck. Each bite is loaded with tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a flavorful dressing that brings everything together.

I first discovered this twist on traditional potato salad during a summer cookout at a friend's house. The combination of cheese and potatoes was so irresistible that I knew I had to recreate it at home. Now, it’s a staple side dish that never fails to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Salad

Get ready to add a new favorite to your list of crowd-pleasers. This Cheesy Potato Salad is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. The entire recipe can be put together in about 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver when you need a quick side dish for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

The texture is another winning point. You get the perfect balance of tender potatoes, crunchy bits of celery, and creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s a satisfying dish that appeals to both adults and kids.

And let’s not forget the bold flavor. The sharp cheddar melts slightly into the warm potatoes, creating a deliciously rich and savory experience. A tangy, mayo-based dressing ties everything together, making sure the flavors shine without being overpowering.

Last but not least, this dish is totally customizable. You can easily adapt it with different mix-ins to suit your preferences or use whatever you have in the fridge. It's a versatile recipe that never disappoints.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cheesy Potato Salad lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish’s irresistible flavor and texture.

• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best here. Russets get fluffy when cooked, while Yukon Golds stay a bit creamier. Peel and cube the potatoes for even cooking and consistent texture in the salad.
• Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar to get the best flavor payoff. You can shred it yourself for the freshest taste, or use pre-shredded if you're short on time.
• Mayonnaise: This forms the base of the dressing, making the salad rich and creamy. For a tangier flavor, you can use half mayo and half Greek yogurt.
• Celery: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that balances the softness of the potatoes. Be sure to chop it finely so it doesn’t overwhelm the texture.
• Green Onions: These bring a mild onion flavor without being too overpowering. You can substitute with red onions if you want a more robust bite.

You’ll also need some salt and pepper for seasoning and a bit of Dijon mustard to add a subtle kick to the dressing. If you have a microplane, grating a small clove of fresh garlic into the mix will take the flavor to the next level.

How To Make This Cheesy Potato Salad

Creating this Cheesy Potato Salad is a breeze. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

Step 1: Start by boiling your potatoes. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed potatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them – you want them to hold their shape in the salad. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, a splash of vinegar, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the warm potatoes to the dressing. The residual heat from the potatoes helps them absorb the flavors. Gently toss the potatoes to coat them evenly, being careful not to mash them.

Step 4: Now, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Make sure everything is well distributed throughout the salad. If you like, you can save a bit of cheese and green onions to sprinkle on top as a garnish.

Step 5: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set. Just before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

In total, this recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus some chilling time. It’s a simple process that yields maximum flavor!

Storage Options

This Cheesy Potato Salad keeps well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance, which is perfect if you're hosting a party or bringing it to a picnic. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the potatoes and dressing will become watery and lose their texture once thawed.

To reheat leftovers (if you prefer it warm), you can microwave small portions, but this salad is usually best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Cheesy Potato Salad is how versatile it is. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon makes a delicious addition, adding a smoky flavor and extra crunch. Just sprinkle it on top before serving.
• Use Different Cheese: Swap the cheddar for gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a unique twist. Each one will bring its own distinct flavor profile to the dish.
• Greek Yogurt Swap: If you’re looking to lighten things up, substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy freshness while cutting down on calories.
• Herbs Galore: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can take this salad to new heights. Add a handful of chopped herbs for a burst of color and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. It’ll give the salad a lively and exciting edge.

Don't be afraid to get creative with this recipe. It’s a wonderful blank canvas that adapts beautifully to different flavors and preferences!

Enjoy making this delightful Cheesy Potato Salad! It’s sure to be a hit wherever it’s served, from casual family meals to special gatherings. Happy cooking!

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