Name: Broccoli Salad with Bacon & Cheddar
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped small); 6 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (or chopped almonds); 1/3 cup dried cranberries (optional, for sweetness); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version); 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey (or sugar); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Broccoli Salad with Bacon & Cheddar is a delicious, crunchy, and creamy side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and meal prep. With crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick prep.
Crunchy, creamy, and flavorful – A perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Great for meal prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for several days.
Perfect for gatherings – A favorite at potlucks and BBQs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh broccoli florets
Cooked bacon (crumbled)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Red onion (finely diced)
Sunflower seeds or chopped almonds (optional)
Dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Dressing

Mayonnaise
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Apple cider vinegar
Sugar or honey
Salt and pepper

Directions

Prepare the ingredients – Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, dice the onion, and crumble the cooked bacon.
Make the dressing – In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the salad – In a large bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, cheddar, red onion, and optional add-ins.
Mix with dressing – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Chill and serve – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Lighter version – Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Extra crunch – Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
Sweet & tangy – Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of sweetness.
Spicy kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
No freezing – This salad does not freeze well due to the mayo-based dressing.
Best when chilled – Allow the flavors to meld for at least 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

No, fresh broccoli works best for the perfect crunch.

How do I make this salad healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and reduce the sugar.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

What can I substitute for bacon?

Try turkey bacon or crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Shredded carrots or chopped bell peppers work well.

What’s the best cheese for this salad?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can also use Colby Jack or feta.

Can I skip the sugar in the dressing?

Yes! Substitute with honey or leave it out for a tangier taste.

How do I keep the broccoli from being too hard?

Blanch it for 30 seconds in boiling water, then drain and cool.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, if you omit the sugar and dried fruit.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs would make great additions.

Conclusion

Broccoli Salad with Bacon & Cheddar is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crunchy texture, creamy dressing, and smoky bacon, it’s always a hit. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing, satisfying salad!