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Jalapeño Popper Potato Salad Recipe

4.7 from 148 reviews

This Jalapeño Popper Potato Salad is a spicy, creamy twist on the classic potato salad, combining tender Yukon Gold potatoes with crisp bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a zesty jalapeño kick. Tossed in a tangy, garlic-infused dressing with fresh chives, it’s perfect for summer cookouts or as a flavorful side dish to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing

  • 2/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sliced chives, plus more for serving
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Salad

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, boiled and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 10 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, sliced chives, and garlic powder. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined, creating a flavorful and tangy dressing.
  2. Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the boiled and cut Yukon Gold potatoes, crumbled bacon, thinly sliced jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix these ingredients gently to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the salad.
  3. Add the dressing and toss: Pour the prepared dressing over the potato mixture. Stir carefully to coat all the ingredients with the creamy dressing, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
  4. Finish and serve: Garnish the salad with additional sliced chives on top for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately or chill for a while to let flavors meld before serving.

Notes

  • For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before slicing.
  • Boil potatoes until just tender to avoid mushiness.
  • Make the salad a few hours ahead and refrigerate for best flavor.
  • Use smoked cheddar for a deeper flavor profile.
  • This salad can be served warm or cold, depending on preference.

Keywords: potato salad, jalapeño popper, spicy potato salad, bacon, cheddar cheese, summer side dish, picnic recipe