Easy Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad

Category: Salads & Side dishes

This potato salad mixes creamy goodness with the spicy kick of jalapeños. Roasting the potatoes gives them a tasty, crispy edge that you’ll love!

It’s perfect for picnics or BBQs, and I can’t help but grab a little extra on my plate, just to savor that spicy taste. Who’s with me? 😄

Making this salad is a breeze! I just roast the potatoes, mix in the other ingredients, and enjoy a fun twist on a classic dish that always gets compliments!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are creamy and flavorful. However, you can substitute with red potatoes or fingerlings for a slightly different texture. Just avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t hold up as well.

Bacon: I love the crispy texture and smoky taste bacon adds. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works too! For a vegetarian version, you can use crispy roasted chickpeas to mimic texture without the meat.

Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños provide a nice heat. If you’re not a fan of spice, consider using bell peppers, or even pickled jalapeños for a milder version. You can adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance, too!

Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This combo gives the dressing a rich, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream, while vegan mayo works for dairy-free diets.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for flavor. If you’d like, swap it for pepper jack for an extra kick or use a non-dairy cheese for a vegan option.

How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?

Getting roasted potatoes to the right texture can make or break your dish. Here are some steps to ensure they come out perfectly:

  • Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces (1-inch cubes) for even cooking.
  • Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding will steam them instead of roasting.
  • Don’t skip the oil! It helps them brown and crisp nicely.
  • Flip halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get golden brown.
  • Keep an eye on them; cook until they’re golden and fork-tender, about 25-30 minutes.

These simple tips will help you achieve that delicious crispy exterior and fluffy interior in your potato salad!

Easy Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad

Easy Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 slices bacon
  • 3 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This scrumptious potato salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes to cook, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to bring this delicious dish to life!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparation Time:

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once that’s done, spread your cubed Yukon Gold potatoes on a large baking sheet. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Give them a good toss to coat the potatoes evenly.

2. Roasting the Potatoes:

Now, pop those seasoned potatoes into the oven to roast. Let them cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want them to be golden and crispy on the outside but soft and tender on the inside. Once done, take them out and let them cool slightly.

3. Cooking the Bacon:

While your potatoes roast, it’s time to cook the bacon! In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once it’s done, move it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the grease, then crumble it into small pieces for later use.

4. Making the Dressing:

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to create a smooth, tasty dressing.

5. Combining Ingredients:

Gently add the roasted potatoes, crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese into the bowl with the dressing. Carefully fold everything together until it’s nicely coated in the creamy mixture.

6. Chill and Blend Flavors:

Take a moment to taste your creation and adjust the seasoning if necessary. For the best flavor, cover your potato salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.

7. Garnishing Before Serving:

When you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a gentle stir. Garnish with fresh sliced green onions and maybe a few extra jalapeño slices if you like some extra heat!

Enjoy your spicy, creamy Easy Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad! It’s sure to be a hit!

Easy Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Potato?

Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are creamy and flavorful, feel free to use red potatoes or fingerlings for a different texture. Just make sure they’re not too waxy, as those may not hold up as well in a salad.

How Can I Make This Potato Salad Vegetarian?

If you want to make this potato salad vegetarian, simply substitute the bacon with crispy roasted chickpeas or omit it entirely. You’ll still get that delicious flavor without the meat!

Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?

Yes! This potato salad actually tastes even better when made a day ahead. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a little stir before serving to refresh the flavors!

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or enjoy it cold right from the fridge!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment