A rich and flavorful potato salad made with tender golden potatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh chives tossed in a creamy sour cream dressing—perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or any comforting side dish. This classic recipe offers a satisfying balance of creaminess, smokiness, and a fresh herbal finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy bacon and chive potato salad is a timeless crowd-pleaser. The combination of hearty potatoes, savory bacon, and tangy dressing creates a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and always in demand. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or as a side dish for a weeknight dinner, it’s an effortless addition that delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds baby Yukon Gold potatoes
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)

directions

1. Wash and cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with salted water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the warm potatoes to the bowl and gently toss to coat them evenly in the dressing.
5. Stir in the crumbled bacon and chopped chives, reserving a small amount of each for garnish.
6. Cover and chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with the reserved bacon and chives just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add Eggs: Stir in chopped hard-boiled eggs for a classic twist.
• Make It Lighter: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Herb Blend: Add dill or parsley alongside the chives for more depth of flavor.
• Smoked Flavor: Try smoked paprika in the dressing for an extra layer of smoky taste.

storage/reheating

Store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best served cold or at room temperature. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the potatoes and dressing may be affected.

FAQs

Can I make this potato salad a day in advance?

Yes, it actually tastes better after resting in the fridge overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.

Should I peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional. Baby Yukon Gold potatoes have thin skins that add texture and nutrients, so they can be left on.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, red potatoes or fingerling potatoes also work well due to their waxy texture.

Is there a dairy-free version of this salad?

You can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives like vegan mayo and coconut yogurt.

What can I use instead of bacon?

Try turkey bacon, pancetta, or even vegetarian bacon alternatives for a similar texture and flavor.

How long can potato salad sit out at room temperature?

No more than 2 hours, especially if it contains dairy and meat, to avoid food safety risks.

Can I serve this warm?

Yes, it can be served slightly warm, especially right after mixing the warm potatoes with the dressing.

Why add the dressing to warm potatoes?

Warm potatoes absorb the dressing better, enhancing flavor throughout the salad.

Can I use dried chives instead of fresh?

Fresh chives offer the best flavor and texture, but you can use dried chives in a pinch—reduce the quantity by half.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?

Allow the cooked potatoes to drain and cool slightly before mixing with the dressing to prevent excess moisture.

Conclusion

Creamy bacon and chive potato salad is a comforting and flavorful addition to any table. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend cookout, family gathering, or casual dinner, this dish delivers the perfect blend of texture and taste. Its ease of preparation and customizable nature make it a go-to favorite you’ll want to return to time and time again.

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