This Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar is a crunchy, creamy, and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing addition to any meal. With the perfect balance of creamy mayo dressing, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, this salad is sure to become a favorite. It’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead for added convenience.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Directions

In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
Mix well until the broccoli is evenly coated.
Add shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and crumbled bacon.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for cooking bacon)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Variations

Add fruits: For a sweet twist, add raisins, cranberries, or apple chunks to the salad.
Vegan version: Use vegan mayo and omit the bacon, or substitute with crispy chickpeas for a plant-based version.
Spicy option: Add a bit of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen broccoli? Fresh broccoli is recommended for this salad, as frozen broccoli may become too soft. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! This salad can be made the night before. In fact, the flavors meld together better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
Can I use a different cheese? You can use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a bit of crumbled blue cheese for a unique flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels, especially for bacon or mayonnaise, to ensure they don’t contain gluten.
Can I skip the sugar? The sugar helps balance the tartness of the apple cider vinegar. If you’re looking to reduce sweetness, you can adjust the amount or substitute it with honey or stevia.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad? Absolutely! You can add chopped cauliflower, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots to enhance the crunch and color.
Can I use other types of vinegar? Yes, you can use white vinegar or red wine vinegar as a substitute for apple cider vinegar.
Can I prepare this without the bacon? Yes, the bacon can be omitted, and the salad will still be delicious. You can also substitute with crispy chickpeas for a vegan-friendly option.
How do I make this salad less creamy? If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of mayonnaise or use Greek yogurt as a substitute.
Can I freeze this salad? Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the broccoli and dressing will change when thawed.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar is a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish that can be made in no time and enjoyed by all. The combination of fresh broccoli, creamy dressing, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon makes it a perfect side for any meal. With so many ways to customize it, this salad can suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.