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Elevate your salad game with the Ultimate Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad. This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of fresh broccoli florets with the creamy decadence of cheddar cheese and the savory crunch of crispy bacon. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish or a hearty lunch, this salad has it all.
The Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that has become a beloved side dish at picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Its origins can be traced back to the American Midwest, where hearty salads with creamy dressings are a staple.
While the exact origin of this salad is uncertain, it likely evolved from traditional broccoli salad recipes, which gained popularity in the 1980s. The addition of cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits adds a savory twist, making it a crowd-pleaser.
This salad’s charm lies in the harmonious blend of ingredients: fresh broccoli florets for crunch, sharp cheddar cheese for creaminess, and crispy bacon for a salty, smoky kick. The creamy dressing ties everything together, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Over the years, the Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad has evolved with variations that may include additional ingredients like red onions, raisins, sunflower seeds, or a tangy vinegar-based dressing. Regardless of the specific recipe, it remains a comforting and flavorful dish that captures the essence of American comfort food.
Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad
The Ultimate Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It's a medley of fresh, crisp broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a standout addition to any meal.
Tools and Equipment
- Mixing Bowl: Buy On Amazon
- Whisk: Buy On Amazon
- Chef's Knife: Buy On Amazon
- Cutting Board: Buy On Amazon
- Large Salad Bowl: Buy On Amazon

Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped red onion.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper to create the creamy dressing.
Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything together until the broccoli is well coated.
If you prefer your bacon crispy, cook the bacon slices until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Add the crumbled bacon to the salad and gently fold it in.
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the salad a final toss to ensure even distribution of the dressing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 313.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 26.61g41%
- Saturated Fat 8.13g41%
- Trans Fat 0.21g
- Cholesterol 34.19mg12%
- Sodium 489.29mg21%
- Potassium 261.63mg8%
- Total Carbohydrate 11.43g4%
- Dietary Fiber 1.51g7%
- Sugars 8.04g
- Protein 8.17g17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- Add a handful of roasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Swap the cheddar cheese for crumbled feta or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon or using a vegetarian bacon substitute.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Ultimate Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad as a side dish for a summer barbecue or alongside grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
Allergen Information:
Here is the allergen information for Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad:
- Contains Allergens: The salad contains cheddar cheese and bacon, both of which may be allergenic for some individuals. Cheddar cheese contains dairy, and bacon is derived from pork. People with dairy or pork allergies should avoid this salad.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
The Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Here are some pairing suggestions:
- Iced Tea: A classic choice to balance the richness of the salad with its refreshing and slightly sweet notes.
- Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade complements the creaminess of the salad.
- Chardonnay: If you prefer wine, a crisp Chardonnay with its citrusy and buttery notes can complement the flavors.
- Beer: A light lager or a wheat beer can be a great match, as the carbonation and maltiness complement the savory elements.
Storage and Leftovers:
To store and enjoy your Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Due to the presence of dairy in the dressing, it's important to keep it chilled.
Consumption: Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness. Over time, the broccoli may become less crisp, and the dressing may lose its consistency.