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Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad

Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad

This Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad is a quick and flavorful twist on the classic potato salad, combining creamy potatoes with spicy jalapenos, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon bits. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a bold, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a tasty family side with vibrant colors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)

Spicy & Cheesy Components

  • 23 fresh jalapenos, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Additional Flavorings

  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 3 green onions, freshly chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Rinse and chop the baby potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water for 10-15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly to avoid melting the cheese in the next steps.
  2. Cook the bacon and dice jalapenos: While the potatoes cook, fry or bake bacon until crispy, then crumble into bits. Finely dice the jalapenos; remove seeds and ribs if you prefer less heat.
  3. Mix creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavors.
  4. Combine ingredients: Add the warm potatoes to the creamy mixture, folding gently to coat each piece without mashing. Mix in the shredded cheddar, bacon bits, jalapenos, and chopped green onions evenly throughout.
  5. Season and chill: Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

Notes

  • Use firm potatoes like Yukon Gold or red to hold shape and provide creamy texture.
  • Don’t over-boil potatoes to prevent them from becoming mushy.
  • Adjust jalapeno heat by tasting first and adding gradually.
  • Mix creamy ingredients with warm potatoes for better flavor absorption.
  • Chill before serving to enhance taste and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato salad, jalapeno popper, spicy potato salad, creamy potato salad, bacon potato salad, summer salad