Lorenzo Devereaux
A potato salad like no other, this Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad takes everything you love about the classic appetizer and transforms it into a creamy, spicy, and irresistible side dish. Imagine tender baby potatoes coated in a rich cream cheese dressing, with smoky bacon crumbles and just the right amount of jalapeno heat—this dish is bound to steal the spotlight at any cookout or family dinner.
The balance of flavors is perfection. The creaminess of the dressing cools the heat of the jalapenos, while crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch with every bite. Fresh chives and a sprinkle of shredded cheese take this salad over the top, making it not just a side dish but a conversation starter.
What Kind of Jalapenos Should I Use?
For the perfect flavor, fresh jalapenos work best. They bring a bright, slightly grassy heat that pairs beautifully with creamy dressing and salty bacon. If you want a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes, or use pickled jalapenos for a tangy twist. Love more heat? Leave those seeds in or even mix in some diced roasted jalapenos for a smoky kick.
Ingredients for the Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad
- Baby Potatoes – The creamy texture holds up well to the rich dressing.
- Cream Cheese – Gives the salad its signature jalapeno popper creaminess.
- Mayonnaise & Sour Cream – Add tangy smoothness to the dressing.
- Fresh Jalapenos – Provide the signature heat and flavor.
- Cooked Bacon – Adds smoky crunch to balance the creamy potatoes.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melty pockets of cheese mimic classic jalapeno poppers.
- Fresh Chives – For a pop of freshness and mild onion flavor.
- Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika – Enhance the savory, smoky profile.
How To Make the Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes to Perfection
Wash and halve the baby potatoes, leaving the skins on for extra texture. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Crisp Up the Bacon
While the potatoes cook, fry the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Jalapeno Dressing
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and finely diced fresh jalapenos. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more jalapenos if you like it hotter.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the dressing while they are still slightly warm. This allows them to soak up all that flavor.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives. Sprinkle with extra smoked paprika and a few thin slices of fresh jalapeno for presentation.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or slightly chilled for the best taste.
Serving and Storing Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad
This potato salad is best served chilled, making it perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and summer gatherings. For the best flavor, prepare it a few hours ahead of time so the dressing can fully soak into the potatoes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the creamy dressing may separate and become watery once thawed.
What to Serve With Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad?
1. Grilled BBQ Chicken
The smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, spicy potato salad.
2. Juicy Cheeseburgers
Classic cheeseburgers and this salad are a match made in comfort food heaven.
3. Smoked Sausages
The bold flavors of smoked sausages stand up well to the richness of the salad.
4. Pulled Pork Sandwiches
The creamy and spicy notes balance the sweet tang of BBQ pulled pork.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob
A buttery, smoky ear of corn is the ultimate summer sidekick.
6. Crispy Fried Chicken
The crunch of fried chicken complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
7. Fresh Green Salad
A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
8. Baked Beans
Sweet and savory baked beans round out the perfect BBQ plate.
Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?
If you love this Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad, you’ll enjoy these other hearty and flavorful potato recipes:
- Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes for a classic comfort-food side.
- Air-Fried Potato Wedges when you’re craving something crispy.
- Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli for a cheesy and veggie-packed option.
- Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs if you love bite-sized potato goodness.
- Cajun Potato Soup for a cozy, spicy bowl on a chilly day.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out—did you add extra jalapenos for more heat? Maybe a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for crunch? I’d love to hear your twist!
Explore more delicious recipes on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and find your next must-try dish!
Jalapeno Popper Potato Salad
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 fresh jalapenos, finely diced adjust to taste
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
- Fry bacon until crispy, drain on paper towels, and crumble.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Stir in mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and jalapenos.
- Fold warm potatoes into the dressing to absorb flavor.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, bacon, and chives.
- Chill for 1 hour before serving. Garnish with jalapenos or smoked paprika if desired.