Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Salad with Greek Yogurt
A rich and tangy potato salad that combines the classic comfort of bacon and cheddar with the bold flavor of ranch seasoning. Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess while keeping it lighter than traditional mayo-based versions. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or summer gatherings when you want a crowd-pleasing side dish that's both familiar and special. The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives creates layers of texture and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs red potatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup greek yogurt
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 3 tablespoons chives, minced
- 1 cup bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- 1
Wash and scrub potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt, then pat dry and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2
Add potatoes to large pot and fill with water to 1 inch above potatoes
- 3
Bring to boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to simmer and cook for 20 minutes until fork-tender
- 4
Drain potatoes in colander and run cold water over them, tossing lightly until no longer hot
- 5
Whisk together sour cream, greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and chives in medium bowl until combined
- 6
Combine cooled potatoes, bacon, and cheese in large bowl, pour dressing over top and toss
- 7
Chill for 2 hours for best flavor
Tips
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning - add cayenne or Aleppo pepper for a spicy kick
Make sure potatoes are completely cooled before mixing to prevent melting the cheese and thinning the dressing
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
Can be made 1 day ahead - flavors improve with time
Serve chilled as a side dish
Common Mistakes
Don't add hot potatoes to prevent melting cheese and thinning dressing
Don't skip chilling time to allow flavors to meld properly
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this salad actually tastes better when made a day ahead as the flavors have more time to develop and meld together.
What if I don't have ranch seasoning packets?
You can make your own by mixing dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
The potato salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored covered in the refrigerator.