Million Dollar Potato Salad Recipe – A Creamy, Bacon-Laden Delight

Potato salad is a timeless dish loved by many, often served at summer cookouts, barbecues, and family gatherings. But have you ever heard of Million Dollar Potato Salad? This decadent, creamy, and flavor-packed version takes your regular potato salad to a whole new level. With ingredients like bacon, cheddar cheese, and a creamy dressing, it’s no wonder why this recipe has earned the name “Million Dollar.” If you’re looking to impress your guests with a crowd-pleasing dish, this Million Dollar Potato Salad is sure to become your go-to recipe. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from the recipe and its origins to step-by-step preparation, variations, and even answer some frequently asked questions.

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What is Million Dollar Potato Salad?

Million Dollar Potato Salad is an indulgent, rich, and creamy variation of the traditional potato salad. What sets this recipe apart is its unique dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard, combined with the delightful addition of crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that’s both satisfying and utterly delicious. The “million-dollar” name is a testament to how special and elevated this potato salad is—making it the perfect addition to any gathering.

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Origin of Million Dollar Potato Salad

While the exact origin of the Million Dollar Potato Salad is unclear, it has gained widespread popularity in the United States over the years. Some believe it was created as a variation of traditional potato salad for special occasions, offering a richer, more luxurious version. Others speculate that it gained its “million-dollar” moniker from its use of ingredients that are considered decadent, such as cream cheese and bacon. Regardless of its origins, this dish has become a favorite for holidays, barbecues, and even potlucks, thanks to its creamy texture and flavor-packed ingredients.

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Ingredients for Million Dollar Potato Salad

Before we get into the preparation method, let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this potato salad stand out. The measurements below will yield a hearty portion, perfect for a family gathering or party.

Ingredients:

• 5 large russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
• 2-3 green onions (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Directions for Million Dollar Potato Salad

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation method. Follow these easy steps to create your own creamy, bacon-filled Million Dollar Potato Salad.

1. Cook the Potatoes

• Place the peeled and diced russet potatoes into a large pot. Ensure that the potatoes are fully covered with water.
• Add a pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes as they cook.
• Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
• Let the potatoes cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
• Drain the potatoes in a colander and set them aside to cool slightly. It’s essential to let the potatoes cool enough to handle, but they should still be warm when mixed with the dressing.

2. Make the Dressing

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and softened cream cheese.
• Add the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy. This is the base for your flavor-packed potato salad.

3. Combine the Potatoes and Dressing

• Once the potatoes have cooled slightly but are still warm, gently fold them into the creamy dressing. Be careful not to mash the potatoes—aim for a chunky texture.
• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. These ingredients will give your potato salad a delightful crunch and flavor burst.

4. Chill the Salad

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the potato salad for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let it chill overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.

5. Garnish & Serve

• Just before serving, sprinkle a dash of paprika on top of the potato salad for a pop of color.
• If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
• Serve chilled, and enjoy!

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Optional Tips & Variations for Million Dollar Potato Salad

While the traditional Million Dollar Potato Salad is undeniably delicious on its own, here are a few variations you can try to make it your own:

Add More Bacon

• If you’re a bacon lover, you can increase the amount of bacon used in the recipe. Adding 8 slices of bacon or more will give your potato salad an extra crispy, savory bite.

Pickles or Relish

• For a tangy twist, you can add a small handful of chopped dill pickles or a spoonful of relish to the salad. The tangy flavor will complement the richness of the dressing.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

• Some versions of this recipe incorporate hard-boiled eggs. Chopped hard-boiled eggs add an extra creamy texture and flavor to the salad, making it even more indulgent.

Vegan Version

• For a vegan-friendly version, replace the mayo, sour cream, and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan bacon or omit it altogether, and you’ll still get a rich and creamy potato salad that everyone can enjoy.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Million Dollar Potato Salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this potato salad tastes even better when allowed to chill in the refrigerator overnight. You can make it 1-2 days in advance for a stress-free meal.

2. Can I use a different type of potato?

While russet potatoes are the best for this recipe due to their fluffiness and texture, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes if preferred.

3. How long can I store leftover potato salad?

Million Dollar Potato Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it chilled at all times to maintain freshness.

4. Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or even cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients in Million Dollar Potato Salad are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the bacon and any other added ingredients are also gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Million Dollar Potato Salad is an unforgettable dish that takes the traditional potato salad to a whole new level. With its creamy dressing, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, picnic, or holiday dinner, this rich and flavorful potato salad will impress your guests and have them coming back for more.

Feel free to experiment with the variations we’ve discussed, or stick to the classic recipe—either way, you’re in for a treat. If you want to make a dish that will stand out and earn rave reviews, Million Dollar Potato Salad is the way to go. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as luxurious as its name suggests.

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