If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavorful side that elevates any meal, you’ve got to try this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that delivers a perfect crunch from fresh broccoli, the irresistible smoky bite of crispy bacon, and that rich, melty goodness of sharp cheddar cheese all coated in a luscious, tangy dressing. Whether you’re bringing it to a barbecue, potluck, or just jazzing up a weeknight dinner, this salad hits all the right notes and comes together in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this salad is wonderfully straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in making this dish unforgettable. From the crisp broccoli to the creamy dressing, every element enhances the taste, texture, and color to create a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Use bite-sized pieces for the perfect crunch and easy eating.
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds smoky, savory flavor and a satisfying crisp texture.
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced: Gives a hint of sharpness and a pop of color.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings creamy richness and a delightful tang to the salad.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: The base of the dressing, providing creaminess and moisture.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds zesty brightness to balance the richness.
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar: Sweetens the dressing just enough to round out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to keep things interesting.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli and Bacon
Start by chopping fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets to ensure every forkful has that perfect crunch. Cook your bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. The contrast of crunchy broccoli and crispy bacon makes for an irresistible texture duo that sets this salad apart.
Step 2: Combine the Veggies and Cheese
In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, finely diced red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. This mix is the core of your salad, bringing combining freshness, savoriness, and creaminess before the dressing even goes on.
Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
Now, in a separate bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified. This dressing ties everything together with its tangy-sweet balance and creamy texture.
Step 4: Dress and Chill
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently until every piece is coated with that luscious creaminess. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; this resting time allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften slightly without losing its crunch.
Step 5: Final Stir and Serve
Just before serving, give the salad a final stir to redistribute any dressing that has settled. Your Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe is now ready to impress at your table!
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little something extra, sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or even dried cranberries on top. These options introduce a welcome crunch or a burst of sweetness, making the salad feel even more special and personalized.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or BBQ ribs. Its creamy tang and hearty texture complement smoky and savory mains perfectly, brightening up your meal with fresh, crisp flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun family-style dish, or set it on a bed of mixed greens to add more visual appeal and extra freshness. For party platters, arrange it in mini cups or mason jars for easy grab-and-go bites that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, though the broccoli will remain crispest if eaten sooner. Give it a good stir before serving leftovers.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables, which can separate or become watery upon thawing. It’s a dish that truly shines when freshly made or stored short-term.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook, chilled salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy it cold straight from the fridge, perfect for a refreshing crunch on a warm day or any time you want an easy, satisfying side.
FAQs
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in this recipe?
Absolutely! Replacing half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt will lighten the dressing without sacrificing creaminess, adding a subtle tang and a boost of protein for a healthier version.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli for this salad?
Fresh broccoli is definitely preferred for its crisp texture here, but if frozen is your only option, thaw and drain it very well to avoid excess moisture making the salad soggy.
How long does the salad need to marinate in the fridge?
A minimum of 30 minutes is ideal to let the flavors blend and the dressing soften the broccoli slightly. If time allows, up to 2 hours enhances the taste even more, but overnight might make the salad too soft.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this salad?
Yes! Adding toasted sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or dried cranberries introduces delightful texture and flavor contrasts that can take the salad from simple to spectacular.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone watching their gluten intake.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a remarkable salad that’s quick to prepare but big on flavor, the Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe is calling your name. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation — so bright, crunchy, and full of personality. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become a beloved favorite you can’t wait to share with friends and family.
Print
Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This classic broccoli salad combines fresh, crunchy broccoli florets with savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish, this easy no-cook recipe is a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly with simple ingredients and can be customized with nuts or dried fruit for added texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, finely diced red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey or sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss thoroughly to coat every ingredient evenly with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and serve chilled as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For extra texture and flavor, consider adding sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or dried cranberries.
- Replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
