German Potato Salad with Bacon & Herbs

Ingredients

  • 4 small red potatoes
  • 4 small white potatoes
  • 1 clove garlic, quartered
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 10 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can chicken broth
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 4 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • dash of pepper

Unlike traditional mayo-based potato salads, German potato salad is served warm with a tangy vinegar and bacon dressing. It’s loaded with bold flavors—crispy bacon, onions, and herbs—that perfectly complement tender potatoes. This is a crowd-pleaser whether served at a picnic, BBQ, or as a cozy fall side.

Cooking Steps

  • 1
    Instructions:
  • 2
    Boil the Potatoes:
  • 3
    Cut red and white potatoes into quarters. Add to a pot with garlic, 2 tsp salt, and ½ tsp pepper. Cover with water and boil for 20–25 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
  • 4
    Cook the Bacon:
  • 5
    In a skillet or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve 2 tsp of the bacon drippings.
  • 6
    Make the Sauce:
  • 7
    In the same pan, sauté the diced onion in bacon drippings until golden. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, then stir in red wine vinegar, green onions, parsley, remaining salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–20 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • 8
    Combine & Serve:
  • 9
    Cut cooked potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Gently fold in the warm dressing and bacon. Serve warm for best flavor.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • No mayo – perfect for outdoor events

  • Served warm – hearty and comforting

  • Bacon-loaded for smoky flavor

  • Herbs and vinegar give it a bright, fresh taste

Tips & Variations:

  • Substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar for a sweeter tang

  • Use Yukon gold potatoes if red/white aren’t available

  • Add a pinch of sugar to balance the vinegar

  • Excellent prepared in a Dutch oven over coals

This warm German potato salad is a rustic, savory side dish that feels both homestyle and gourmet. Whether you’re serving it with grilled brats or roasted chicken, it’s sure to be a hit.

Roughing It Easy

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