Description
This Jalapeño Popper Potato Salad is a bold, creamy side dish that brings together the best of two classics. Creamy potatoes are tossed with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, fresh jalapeños, and a tangy, smoky dressing. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or anytime you want a side dish that stands out from the crowd.
Ingredients
2 ½ pounds red potatoes
6 slices thick-cut bacon
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup chopped fresh chives
½ cup finely diced red onion
2–3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
¾ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 clove garlic minced, ½ cup chopped dill pickles
Instructions
1. Place the red potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Salt generously, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. While the potatoes cook, cook the bacon in a skillet until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then chop or crumble.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Dice the red onion, chop the chives, and finely chop the jalapeños. Set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled potatoes with the dressing. Add jalapeños, red onion, chives, and cheddar cheese. Mix gently to coat evenly.
6. Fold in the crumbled bacon just before serving. Garnish with extra chives and bacon if desired.
7. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold.
Notes
Red potatoes hold their shape best and add color.
For more spice, leave the jalapeño seeds in or add cayenne.
Add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.
Let the salad chill before serving for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 480
- Fat: 27
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 16
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 26
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 35
Keywords: potato salad, jalapeno popper, BBQ side dish