Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Table of Contents
When it comes to potluck favorites and easy side dishes, nothing beats a classic Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Crisp broccoli florets are tossed with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, red onion, and a sweet-tangy creamy dressing. The combination is crunchy, savory, and so refreshing – perfect for BBQs, picnics, or weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Crunchy & fresh – broccoli stays crisp and satisfying.
- Smoky & savory – bacon adds irresistible flavor.
- Make-ahead friendly – gets even better after chilling.
- Crowd-pleaser – great for holidays, gatherings, or meal prep.
What Is Broccoli Salad with Bacon?
It’s a cold salad made with raw broccoli florets, crispy bacon, cheese, onion, and seeds or nuts, tossed in a creamy mayo-based dressing. The flavors come together to create the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory.
Ingredients (Exact)
- 6 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sunflower seeds (or sliced almonds)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar (or honey)
- Salt & pepper to taste
How to Make Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Cook bacon – Fry or bake bacon until crispy, then crumble.
- Prep broccoli – Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Mix dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble – In a large bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, onion, cheese, and sunflower seeds. Pour dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill & serve – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Tips & Variations
- Healthier swap – use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
- Fruit boost – add dried cranberries or raisins for sweetness.
- Nutty crunch – swap sunflower seeds for almonds, pecans, or walnuts.
- Meal prep tip – store dressing separately and mix just before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.
Do I need to blanch the broccoli?
Not necessary – raw broccoli keeps the salad crisp. Blanching is optional if you prefer softer florets.
How long does it last?
Stored in the fridge, this salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Salad with Bacon is crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor – the perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a holiday table, or a simple family dinner, this recipe always impresses and disappears fast!
