Ultimate Vegan Loaded Potato Salad: Creamy, Cheesy, and Bacon-Filled Perfection
Craving the indulgent flavors of a loaded baked potato but looking for a plant-based option? This vegan loaded potato salad delivers all the rich, savory satisfaction you desire. Imagine tender potatoes bathed in a lusciously creamy dressing, studded with tangy vegan sour cream, savory plant-based cheddar, and crispy vegan bacon—just like your favorite stuffed baked potato, but in a refreshing salad format! It’s an absolute game-changer for any picnic, barbecue, potluck, or even a delightful weeknight meal, guaranteed to be the undisputed star of the spread.
While I often appreciate the simplicity of a light, vinaigrette-based potato salad, there are moments when only a hearty, creamy, and deeply satisfying salad will do. This recipe goes beyond the ordinary, transforming the classic comfort of a loaded baked potato into an incredible, easy-to-make vegan dish. It’s the kind of potato salad that evokes nostalgia while simultaneously surprising your taste buds with its incredible plant-based rendition.
Not only does this recipe boast a crave-worthy creamy dressing, reminiscent of a beloved vegan potato salad, but it also piles on all the delectable toppings you’d expect from a fully loaded baked potato or these irresistible loaded potato skins. The vegan sour cream introduces a delightful tanginess and richness, perfectly balancing the flavors, while the shredded plant-based cheddar cheese melts into the warm potatoes, bringing that irresistible cheesy goodness everyone loves. And for those who think a loaded potato isn’t complete without bacon, fret not! This salad is generously packed with crispy, smoky plant-based bacon in every single forkful, providing that essential texture and umami flavor. Get ready for a truly indulgent and satisfying vegan experience!
Why You’ll Adore This Vegan Loaded Potato Salad
This isn’t just another potato salad; it’s a culinary masterpiece that brings joy and incredible flavor to any table. Here’s why this vegan loaded potato salad will quickly become a cherished favorite:
- Irresistible Vegan Bacon: It’s often said that bacon makes everything better, and this holds true for our plant-based counterpart. The smoky flavor and delightfully crispy texture of vegan bacon crumbles are utterly addictive, adding a crucial layer of savory depth that elevates this salad from good to extraordinary. You won’t miss a thing!
- Incredibly Versatile: While perfect as a quintessential side dish for any barbecue or picnic, this loaded potato salad is hearty enough to stand on its own as a fulfilling main course. Its rich combination of potatoes, creamy dressing, and savory toppings makes it suitable for anything from a casual weekday lunch to a festive holiday spread. Take it to a potluck, pack it for a picnic, or enjoy it as a satisfying meal at home – it fits every occasion beautifully.
- Effortlessly Easy to Make: Don’t let the gourmet taste fool you; this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare. The most time-consuming part involves baking the potatoes until they are perfectly tender, but this is largely hands-off time. The rest is a straightforward assembly of delicious ingredients, making it an ideal dish for both novice and experienced cooks.
- An Instant Crowd-Pleaser: Prepare for rave reviews! This creamy, flavorful, and generously topped potato salad is a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Its familiar and comforting flavors appeal to everyone, even those who typically opt for traditional potato salads. Watch as even your non-vegan friends and family fall in love with the luscious dressing and savory additions.
- Wholesome & Satisfying: Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients, this plant-based dish offers a comforting and filling meal without any animal products. It’s a delicious way to enjoy classic comfort food while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.
- Customizable for Any Palate: Easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add a touch of heat, experiment with different herbs, or incorporate additional vegetables for a personalized touch.
Essential Ingredients for Your Vegan Loaded Potato Salad
Crafting the perfect vegan loaded potato salad begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that sought-after creamy, savory, and tangy balance. Below are some notes on the key ingredients you’ll need. For precise quantities and step-by-step instructions, make sure to scroll down to the comprehensive recipe card.
- Russet Potatoes: These are the star of our show! Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because their starchy texture results in a fluffy, tender interior when baked, perfectly mimicking the base of a traditional baked potato. They absorb the dressing beautifully and hold their shape well after cubing.
- Olive Oil: Used for rubbing the potatoes before baking, olive oil helps achieve a slightly crispy skin and a wonderfully seasoned exterior, enhancing their overall flavor and texture.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the potatoes before baking, bringing out their natural flavor. It’s also used to season the final salad to taste.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial for adding a bright, zesty tang to the dressing. It cuts through the richness, preventing the salad from tasting too heavy and adding a refreshing note. Always opt for fresh lemon for the best flavor!
- Vegan Sour Cream: This ingredient provides the essential tang and creaminess that is characteristic of a loaded baked potato. You can choose a high-quality store-bought brand or make your own incredibly rich and tangy homemade vegan sour cream for an even fresher taste.
- Vegan Mayo: The foundation of our creamy dressing, vegan mayonnaise adds a smooth, rich texture and a subtle savory flavor that binds all the ingredients together. Like sour cream, you can either purchase your favorite brand or whip up a batch of delicious homemade vegan mayo.
- Dijon Mustard: Just a tablespoon of Dijon mustard adds a fantastic sharp, pungent kick to the dressing. It’s a flavor enhancer that livens up the creamy base and complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: A hint of garlic powder infuses the dressing with a warm, aromatic depth, contributing to the savory profile of the salad without being overpowering.
- Scallions (Green Onions): Finely chopped scallions provide a fresh, mild onion flavor and a vibrant green color. They add a delicate crunch and a touch of freshness that brightens the entire dish. For an even milder note, fresh chives make an excellent substitute.
- Shredded Vegan Cheddar Cheese: This is where the “cheesy” part of “loaded” comes in! Choose your favorite brand of shredded vegan cheddar. When mixed into the warm potatoes, it will soften slightly, contributing a delicious savory, cheesy flavor and a wonderful texture throughout the salad.
- Vegan Bacon Crumbles: The ultimate topping for a loaded potato salad! These crumbles bring a smoky, salty, and crispy element that is absolutely essential. My coconut bacon recipe is especially perfect for this, offering an incredible texture and flavor that rivals traditional bacon.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: A garnish of fresh parsley adds a final flourish of bright color and a fresh, herbaceous note. It’s not just for aesthetics; it provides a lovely, clean contrast to the rich dressing.
- Salt and Pepper: These pantry staples are essential for seasoning to taste, allowing you to perfect the flavor balance of your potato salad before serving.
Crafting Your Delicious Vegan Loaded Potato Salad
Making this incredibly flavorful vegan loaded potato salad is a straightforward process, primarily involving baking the potatoes and then assembling the components. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress!
- Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This ensures your potatoes bake evenly and deliciously.
- Bake the Potatoes to Perfection: Thoroughly wash and scrub your russet potatoes. Rub each potato generously with olive oil and season them with a sprinkle of salt. Using a fork, poke several holes all around each potato. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from bursting and ensuring a fluffy interior. Place the prepared potatoes on the lined baking sheet and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until they are perfectly fork-tender. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your potatoes.
- Cool, Peel, and Cube: Once the potatoes are baked, carefully remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool down just enough so they are comfortable to handle. While still warm, peel the skin (it should come off easily) and cut the potatoes into bite-sized cubes, roughly 1-inch pieces. Immediately sprinkle the warm potato cubes with fresh lemon juice. This not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the potatoes from oxidizing and turning brown.
- Whisk the Creamy Dressing: In a separate medium bowl, combine the vegan sour cream, vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. This is your luscious, tangy dressing that will coat every potato piece.
- Toss the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled and cubed potatoes, chopped scallions, shredded vegan cheddar cheese, vegan bacon crumbles, and fresh parsley. Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the potato mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients until every potato cube and topping is thoroughly coated with the delicious dressing. Be careful not to mash the potatoes too much; you want distinct cubes.
- Finish and Serve: Taste the loaded potato salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors according to your preference. Serve immediately while still slightly warm, or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy your homemade vegan masterpiece!
Tips for Perfection and Creative Variations
Elevate your vegan loaded potato salad with these helpful tips and exciting variations to suit any taste or occasion:
- Uniform Potato Size is Key: For consistent baking and texture, always choose russet potatoes that are roughly the same size. This ensures they all become fork-tender at the same time, preventing some from being undercooked while others are overdone.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or even some finely diced jalapeños to the dressing. This will introduce a subtle warmth that can be incredibly delicious.
- Boost the Protein: For an extra dose of protein and a different texture, consider swapping out some of the vegan bacon crumbles for tempeh bacon. Tempeh bacon offers a chewier, more substantial bite and is a fantastic way to make the salad even more filling.
- Experiment with the Sour Cream: While vegan sour cream provides a classic tang, you can achieve a slightly different profile by using plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt (such as cashew or almond-based) in the dressing. This will impart a brighter, more pronounced tang that some may prefer. Ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the savory balance.
- Herbaceous Additions: Beyond parsley, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs. Dill, chives, or even a touch of fresh rosemary can add delightful new dimensions of flavor to your potato salad.
- Make Ahead for Flavor Infusion: For the best flavor, consider making this salad a few hours in advance or even the day before. This allows the dressing to fully penetrate the potatoes and for all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving!
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: For a subtle contrast, a hint of finely diced sweet onion or a touch of maple syrup in the dressing can balance the savory notes beautifully.
Perfect Pairings for Your Loaded Potato Salad
This versatile vegan loaded potato salad is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it truly shines when paired with other delicious dishes. Its rich and creamy profile makes it an excellent companion to classic cookout favorites and other light, refreshing sides. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions:
- Grilled Plant-Based Burgers: Nothing says summer like a juicy burger. This potato salad pairs wonderfully with my easy grillable veggie burgers, creating a complete and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any barbecue.
- Mexican Street Corn: The smoky sweetness of grilled Mexican street corn provides a vibrant contrast to the creamy potato salad. The lime and chili flavors will add an exciting kick to your plate.
- Fresh Pasta Salad: For a varied texture and flavor profile, serve alongside a lighter salad like my 15-minute vegan pasta salad. The fresh vegetables and zesty dressing of a pasta salad can cut through the richness of the loaded potato salad beautifully.
- Crispy Tofu or Tempeh: If you’re looking for additional protein without grilling, serve the potato salad with baked or pan-fried crispy tofu or tempeh strips.
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty potato salad.
Storing Your Vegan Loaded Potato Salad
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious vegan loaded potato salad for days to come. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh and flavorful:
Store any leftover loaded potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to keep it well-sealed to prevent it from drying out and to absorb any strong odors from other foods in your fridge. As it sits, the potatoes tend to absorb a significant amount of the dressing, which can make the salad seem a bit drier on subsequent servings. If you notice this, you can easily freshen it up by stirring in a little extra vegan mayonnaise or vegan sour cream just before serving again. This will restore its creamy consistency and vibrant flavor.
It’s generally advised to avoid freezing this salad. Potatoes, especially after being cooked and then frozen, tend to develop an unpleasant, mealy, or watery texture upon thawing. This can significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the dish. For the best quality and taste, always opt for refrigeration.
Discover More Delicious Vegan Salad Recipes
If you loved this vegan loaded potato salad, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our delectable plant-based salad creations that are perfect for any meal or occasion. From hearty mains to refreshing sides, we have a variety of recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure:
- Hearty Chickpea Panzanella Salad
- Flavorful Vegan Cobb Salad
- Refreshing Cucumber and Tomato Salad
- Effortless Vegan Caesar Salad with Coconut Bacon
- Simple and Delicious Greek Panzanella Salad
We hope you truly enjoy making and sharing this incredible vegan loaded potato salad with your friends and family! If you decide to whip up this recipe, please capture a moment and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram. We absolutely love seeing your culinary creations! Additionally, your feedback is invaluable to us, so please consider leaving a comment below and giving the recipe a rating. Thank you so much for being a part of our kitchen community!
Loaded Potato Salad
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Ingredients
- 6 russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, 30 ml
- 1 teaspoon salt, 6 grams
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ⅓ cup vegan sour cream, 75 grams
- ½ cup vegan mayonnaise, 116 grams
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 15 grams
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 2 grams
- 4 scallions, chopped
- ½ cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese, 113 grams
- ½ cup vegan bacon crumbles, 115 grams
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, 15 grams
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil, season them with salt, and use a fork to poke a few holes in each. Arrange the potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes or until fork tender.
- Once cool enough to handle, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Sprinkle with lemon juice and set aside.
- Whisk together the vegan sour cream, vegan mayo, Dijon, and garlic powder.
- Combine the potatoes, scallions, vegan cheddar cheese, vegan bacon, and parsley in a large mixing bowl. Add the dressing and toss to coat the potatoes.
- Taste the potato salad and season with salt and pepper if needed.
Notes
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.