Crispy Potato Salad: The Best Baked Side Dish for BBQs

I still remember the first summer cookout I hosted, anxious as I watched friends gather and the grill sizzle. As I hurriedly prepared sides, I wanted something that would elevate the usual spread. That’s when I stumbled upon a delightful twist on a classic: Crispy Potato Salad. Imagine fluffy, golden Yukon gold potatoes, baked to a perfect crisp and then tossed in a creamy, herb-infused dressing. The moment I served it, everyone was raving about that satisfying crunch paired with vibrant flavors.

This recipe is a game-changer for those tired of the same old dishes at backyard BBQs. Not only is it a breeze to whip up, but it also caters to the veggie lovers among us. With its luxurious texture and fresh notes from herbs, my Crispy Potato Salad quickly became a staple at every gathering. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to offer it as a side dish at every summer celebration!

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why is Crispy Potato Salad a Must-Try?

Crispy, Fluffy Texture: Experience the delightful crunch of baked Yukon gold potatoes that soften perfectly on the inside.

Versatile Side Dish: This salad complements everything from grilled meats to vegan plates, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal effort, you can whip up this dish, freeing up your time to enjoy the cookout.

Flavorful Dressing: A decadent blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible creamy coating that elevates the dish.

Perfect for Summer Gatherings: Make a statement at BBQs with this modern take on a classic; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

For a similar upbeat side, consider trying my quick beetroot and goats cheese quiches with crispy potato cups!

Crispy Potato Salad Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Yukon gold potatoes – The star of this crispy potato salad; their creamy texture allows for perfect baking and crisping.
• Olive oil – Essential for roasting the potatoes; enhances flavor and promotes crispiness.
• Kosher salt – Vital for seasoning the boiling water and enhancing flavor during roasting.
• Black pepper (freshly cracked) – Adds a hint of heat while enhancing the potatoes’ natural flavors.
• Garlic powder – Introduces savory depth to the seasoning mixture.

For the Dressing
• Sour cream – Provides a rich creaminess and tang that balances the dish beautifully.
• Mayonnaise – Adds luxurious richness; works in harmony with the sour cream for a well-rounded dressing.
• Dijon mustard – Infuses the dressing with a zesty tang that brightens the overall flavor.
• Lemon juice – Brightens the dressing with acidity, tying all the flavors together.

For the Garnish
• Fresh scallions (divided) – Introduces a mild onion flavor; reserve some for topping to enhance freshness.
• Fresh dill (divided) – Offers bright, herbaceous notes; save some for garnishing for an aromatic finish.
• Fresh parsley (divided) – Complements the other herbs; keeping some reserved for garnish adds a pop of color.

Full measurements are in the recipe card below.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Potato Salad

Step 1
Start by boiling the Yukon gold potatoes to achieve that perfect fluffy interior. Place the cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water, adding 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 12 to 16 minutes. You want them easily pierced with a fork but not falling apart. Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 2
Next, let’s roast those potatoes to get that incredible crispiness that makes this Crispy Potato Salad unforgettable. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the drained potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, and some freshly cracked black pepper. Spread the potatoes evenly on a baking sheet, making sure they aren’t crowded to ensure even cooking. Roast them for about 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through to get that golden color all around.

Step 3
While those delicious potatoes are roasting, it’s time to prepare the creamy dressing. In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and mayonnaise for that rich texture. Then, stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a hint of salt and pepper. Toss in the chopped scallions (save some for garnish), fresh dill (reserve a little for topping), and parsley (don’t forget to keep some for garnish too). Blend everything well until combined; it should feel creamy and aromatic, ready to embrace those crispy potatoes.

Step 4
Once your potatoes are perfectly roasted, it’s time to bring everything together. Place the crispy baked potatoes into a large serving bowl and gently toss them with the creamy dressing. Make sure that every piece is coated to ensure that satisfying combination of crunch and creaminess in your Crispy Potato Salad. It’s best to do this right before serving to maintain that delightful crispiness.

Step 5
Finally, it’s time for a beautiful finish! Garnish your Crispy Potato Salad with the reserved scallions, dill, and parsley. This step not only adds a vibrant color contrast but also freshens up the flavors beautifully. Serve it warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite BBQ dishes, and watch as it becomes the talk of the cookout!

🥧 One more slice of creativity? Follow our Pinterest boards for the latest kitchen delights.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Potato Salad preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings! You can boil and roast the Yukon gold potatoes up to 24 hours in advance—just ensure they cool completely before refrigerating them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. The creamy dressing can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing all those delightful flavors to meld beautifully. When it’s time to serve, gently reheat the potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy again, then toss with the dressing and garnish. This way, you’ll achieve that mouthwatering texture and presentation with minimal fuss!

Crispy Potato Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with your dish and customize it to your liking!

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or chives to the dressing for an aromatic twist that freshens every bite.
  Experiment with different herbs, and you’ll find your unique flavor profile!

• Vegan: Substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream or vegan mayo.
  Enjoy a creamy delight while accommodating dairy-free friends!

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the dressing for a zesty heat.
  This fiery addition will have spice lovers raving about your salad!

• Bacon Bliss: Add crispy, crumbled bacon bits for that smoky crunch that elevates the salad’s flavor profile.
  A perfect balance of flavors makes this variation absolutely irresistible!

• Mustard Jazz: Experiment with different mustards, such as whole grain or honey mustard, for a unique twist in flavor.
  Each variety will impart a distinct taste while still making the dish shine.

• Roasted Veggie Medley: Toss in roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added color and texture in the salad.
  Enhance the wholesome feel and flavor profile—a truly vibrant addition!

• Tangy Pickles: Mix in chopped dill pickles or relish for an extra zesty bite that perfectly complements the creaminess.
  This unexpected crunch will leave everyone wanting more!

• Smoky Paprika: Sprinkle smoked paprika on the roasted potatoes before baking to add a mouthwatering depth of flavor.
  This subtle shift can transform your potato salad into a sensational side!

What to Serve with Crispy Potato Salad?

Looking to create a memorable meal that pairs beautifully with your Crispy Potato Salad? Let’s dive into some delightful options!

• Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken provide a savory complement, balancing the creaminess of the salad perfectly.

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  BBQ Ribs: Tender, saucy ribs are a classic cookout choice, and the robust flavors pair beautifully with the crispy potatoes.

• Veggie Burgers: A hearty veggie burger brings plant-based protein, ensuring everyone at the gathering leaves satisfied and happy.

• Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn adds a burst of freshness and crunch, enhancing the overall texture experience of the meal.

• Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy salad provides an excellent contrast to the richness of the potato salad. Plus, the vibrant colors lighten up your plate!

• Grilled Zucchini: This adds a delightful char and tenderness, complementing the salad’s flavors while keeping everything fresh and tasty.

• Watermelon Salad: A refreshing side with a hint of sweetness and acidity that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of your potato salad.

• Iced Tea: A cool pitcher of iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, refreshes your palate and adds a classic touch to any summer meal.

• Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, these warm, gooey treats bring a nostalgic touch to your BBQ, rounding out the meal beautifully.

Expert Tips for Crispy Potato Salad

• Potato Perfection: Ensure you use Yukon gold potatoes. Their unique texture crisps up beautifully, making your crispy potato salad irresistible.

• Don’t Rush Boiling: Avoid over-boiling your potatoes; tender but intact is the goal. If they’re too soft, they’ll break apart during mixing.

• Uniform Sizes: Cut the potatoes into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. This way, they’ll roast uniformly, giving you ideal crunchiness.

• Season Generously: Salt is key! Add it to the boiling water and liberally when roasting the potatoes. This elevates the flavors in your crispy potato salad.

• Timely Tossing: Mix the dressing with the crispy potatoes right before serving. This prevents sogginess and keeps that delightful crunch intact.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Potato Salad

Fridge: Store leftover crispy potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while preventing sogginess.

Freezer: Although it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions by placing them in airtight containers. Use within 1 month for optimal flavor, but note that the texture might change.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through while maintaining some crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may lead to soggy potatoes.

Serving Cold: If you prefer serving it cold, let the crispy potato salad sit at room temperature for a few minutes before making it a side for your favorite BBQ dishes.

Crispy Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

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