If you're looking for a side dish that’s creamy, tangy, and loaded with flavor, look no further than this Cheesy Potato Salad. Combining tender potatoes, melty cheese, and a zesty dressing, this dish takes traditional potato salad to a whole new level. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a hearty family dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

I first made this recipe as an experiment to jazz up a classic side dish for a summer cookout. Needless to say, it disappeared faster than anything else on the table! Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen whenever I want something comforting yet vibrant.

Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Salad

Get ready to fall in love with a potato salad like no other. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

Rich and Creamy: With a mix of tangy mayonnaise, sour cream, and melty cheese, every bite is packed with luscious flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and perfectly cooked potatoes creates a dish that’s hearty, comforting, and impossible to resist.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly.
Versatile: Serve it warm or chilled, and easily customize it with your favorite add-ins like bacon, green onions, or herbs.

Whether you're hosting a BBQ or planning a holiday feast, this cheesy potato salad is the ultimate side dish. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

This Cheesy Potato Salad relies on a few key ingredients that come together beautifully:

Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for this recipe. Their creamy texture holds up well without becoming mushy. Be sure to boil them just until fork-tender.
Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar is the star here. Its bold flavor pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing and creamy potatoes.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These combine to create the creamy base of the salad. The mayo adds richness, while the sour cream brings a hint of tanginess.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh, zesty bite that balances the richness of the cheese and dressing.
Dijon Mustard: A small dollop of Dijon adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing without overpowering the dish.
Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika enhances the flavors and gives the salad a pop of color.

Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on making this irresistible dish!

How to Make This Cheesy Potato Salad

Making this Cheesy Potato Salad is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Boil the Potatoes: Start by cutting your potatoes into bite-sized chunks (no need to peel them unless you prefer). Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Boil until fork-tender, about 12-15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
Combine the Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the dressing, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Add the Cheese: Stir in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese while the potatoes are still warm. This helps the cheese melt slightly, creating a creamy, cheesy texture throughout the salad.
Finish with Toppings: Add chopped green onions and a sprinkle of paprika on top for color and flavor.
Serve: You can serve this salad warm for a comforting side or chill it in the fridge for at least an hour if you prefer it cold. Either way, it’s delicious!

Storage Options

One of the best things about this Cheesy Potato Salad is that it stores well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more over time, making it taste even better the next day.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the potatoes and dressing separately a day in advance. Combine them just before serving for the freshest taste.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the potatoes and dressing may change when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly versatile. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Bacon Lovers: Add crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
Herby Twist: Stir in chopped parsley, dill, or chives for a fresh and aromatic version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing for a hint of heat.
Cheese Swap: Try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
Veggie Add-Ins: Mix in diced celery, bell peppers, or pickles for added crunch and flavor.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a variation, you can’t go wrong with this cheesy delight.

Whether it’s for a summer cookout, a cozy winter dinner, or simply because you’re craving comfort food, this Cheesy Potato Salad is a side dish you’ll want to make again and again. With its creamy dressing, cheesy goodness, and tender potatoes, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Now it’s your turn to give it a try. Grab your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to enjoy the ultimate potato salad experience!