Potato salad is a staple dish at cookouts, picnics, and family gatherings, but if you’re looking for a bold and spicy upgrade, the Smashed Buffalo Potato Salad is the perfect choice. This dish takes the creamy comfort of traditional potato salad and infuses it with the tangy heat of Buffalo sauce, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Spicy Flavor: The Buffalo sauce adds a delicious heat that complements the creaminess of the dressing.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, tailgate party, or casual dinner, this dish will impress your guests.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this flavorful salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Smashed Buffalo Potato Salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes (red or Yukon gold)
- 1/3 cup Buffalo sauce
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil and Smash the Potatoes
Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Once they are cool enough to handle, place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use the bottom of a glass or a fork to gently smash each potato, ensuring they remain intact but flattened. This process helps create a crispy texture when baked.
2. Bake for Crispiness
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
3. Prepare the Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Buffalo sauce, mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. This creamy and tangy dressing will coat the crispy potatoes, balancing the heat with a rich, flavorful texture.
4. Assemble the Salad
Once the potatoes are done baking, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Add the chopped celery, green onions, and crumbled blue cheese. If using bacon, toss that in as well for an added crunch.
Pour the Buffalo dressing over the potatoes and gently toss until everything is well coated.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Smashed Buffalo Potato Salad
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby Yukon gold or red potatoes work best due to their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape when smashed.
- Make It Healthier: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and mayonnaise to reduce fat while keeping it creamy.
- Adjust the Heat Level: If you love extra spice, drizzle more Buffalo sauce on top before serving.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the potatoes a day in advance and assemble the salad just before serving.
What to Serve with Smashed Buffalo Potato Salad
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.
- Burgers and hot dogs at BBQs.
- Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced plate.
Why This Recipe is Trending
The Smashed Buffalo Potato Salad has gained popularity due to its fusion of comfort food and bold flavors. With Buffalo sauce being a fan-favorite, adding it to potato salad offers a creative and delicious twist that food lovers can’t resist. Additionally, textured salads with crispy and creamy elements are trending in the culinary world, making this dish a must-try in 2025.
Final Thoughts
If you love classic potato salad but crave something spicier and more exciting, this Smashed Buffalo Potato Salad is a game-changer. With its crispy potatoes, tangy Buffalo dressing, and rich blue cheese, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to spice up your side dishes, this salad is guaranteed to become a new favorite!
Try it out and let us know what you think! Share your experience and any creative twists you made to the recipe in the comments below!