Chipotle Potato Salad with Bacon and Roasted Potatoes
Casey Rooney
This chipotle potato salad with bacon and roasted potatoes is smoky, spicy, bacon-y, and will have your guests raving! We start by roasting the potatoes for extra flavor, then toss them in a creamy dressing and top with fresh herbs, crunchy bacon, and a touch of lime juice. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or anytime you want a side dish with a little kick!
1canned chipotle in adobo, chopped (seeds removed for less heat) + 2-3 tbsp. adobo sauce from the can
1tsp.garlic powder
1tbsp.lime juice (more if you want a thinner consistency)
1/2tsp.coarse salt (sea salt, kosher salt)
pinch of sugaroptional
For the salad
2lbs. russet potatoes, diced into a small 1/2 inch diceabout 3 medium-large potatoes
2tbsp.olive oil
1tsp.smoked paprika + more for sprinkling
2tsp.garlic powder
1/2tsp.coarse salt (sea salt, kosher salt)
freshly ground black pepper
12oz. bacon, chopped into small pieces
4-5green onions, sliced (both white and green parts)
1/4cupcilantro, chopped
Instructions
Roast potatoes: Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss diced potatoes with olive oil. Then sprinkle on garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well until the spices completely coat the potatoes. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet in an even layer and roast for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and tender. Remove the potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool completely.
Cook bacon: While the potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook 12-14 minutes until crisp. Stir often. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside to cool.
Make the dressing: While the bacon is cooking, make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients until smooth. Place it in the fridge and allow the flavors to marry while you prep the other ingredients.
Toss: To a large bowl, add cooled potatoes, bacon, and onion. Toss with the dressing. Sprinkle with cilantro and a little smoked paprika over the top. Serve right away or place in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
Notes
Casey's Tips
Roasting the potatoes: Dice the potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes so they roast evenly. Let the potatoes get crisp and lightly browned for maximum flavor and don’t overcrowd the pan!
Adjust the heat: Remove the seeds from the chipotle peppers for a more mild flavor.
Make-ahead tip: Roast the potatoes, make the dressing, and cook the bacon a day in advance. Then, toss everything together just before serving.
Fresh herbs last: Stir in the cilantro right before serving so the flavor stays bright and fresh.
Storage: This salad holds up well in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days.