Loaded Ranch Potato Salad

Potato Salad, just the mention of the word creates the memories of church socials, 4th of July picnics and back yard Bar-be-ques. I have sampled dozens of varieties of this famous side, a select few where memorable and while some where ho hum I'm still a big fan. This is one of my favorites and is really a twist on  a Fully Loaded Baked Potato. It is at home whether next to a Hamburger, a cold Deli Roast Beef Sandwich, or Smoky Texas BBQ Brisket.
Creamy and light from a ranch style dressing that doesn't get in the way of the flavors of the main element of the meal. It allows you to have that fully loaded baked potato and enjoy the potato salad too. Enjoy!    

Prep time: 15 min                         Cook time: 20 Min + *2 hrs in refrigerator
*for flavors to develop


Ingredients:

3 lbs Yukon gold Potatoes
1 quart chicken stock
1 quart water

dressing:
3/4 cup Light mayo
3/4 cup/sour cream
1/4 cup milk
2 cloves garlic (finely grated)
1/2 tsp Kosher salt
1/4 tsp  black pepper
1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbl *Bacos bacon bits
1/2 tsp celery seed
1 stalk celery 1/4" dice
* Bacos lend a smokier flavor than bacon


Tools:  2 larger bowls, colander, 2 lbs of ice,wire whisk


Directions:

In a large mixing bowl combine the sour cream, milk, mayonnaise, grated garlic,salt and pepper,and celery seed whisk together. Place in the refrigerator.
Peel and cut the potatoes into 1/2" dice place in 4 quart sauce pan cover with the chicken stock and water bring to a low boil over med hi heat. Cook for 7- 10 min. test for tenderness at the 7 min mark( if a tooth pick will slid into the potato with little effort they are done). Drain in the colander and then plunge the colander into an ice bath to stop the cooking and cool down.
Remove from the ice bath and allow to drain well. Remove the dressing from the refrigerator add the potatoes to the dressing along with the cheese, celery and bacon bits mix well cover with cling wrap and return to the refrigerator for two hours to over night to allow flavors to blend. Garnish with Chives before serving.