Make-Ahead Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese

Make-Ahead Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese
  • PREP TIME
    10 mins
  • COOK TIME
    0 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    40 mins
  • SERVING
    16 People
  • VIEWS
    16

Elevate your next gathering with this vibrant and flavorful broccoli salad. Crisp broccoli florets mingle with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy-sweet dressing, all prepped in advance for ultimate convenience. This make-ahead marvel is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a delightful side dish any day of the week.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    10 g
  • Cholesterol
    51 mg
  • Fiber
    1 g
  • Protein
    15 g
  • Saturated Fat
    9 g
  • Sodium
    833 mg
  • Sugar
    7 g
  • Fat
    28 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step
5 mins

In a large resealable container or bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, shredded Cheddar cheese, and diced red onion. (5 minutes)

02

Step
2 mins

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined. (2 minutes)

03

Step
30 mins

If making ahead, store the broccoli mixture and dressing separately in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 week. (30 minutes)

04

Step
2 mins

Just before serving, pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. (2 minutes)

05

Step
10 mins

Serve immediately or chill briefly to allow the flavors to meld further. (10 minutes)

For best results, use freshly shredded Cheddar cheese, as pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose that can prevent the dressing from adhering properly.
If you prefer a slightly sweeter salad, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dressing to taste.
To add a bit of crunch, consider adding toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts just before serving.
Feel free to substitute other cheeses, such as Colby Jack or Monterey Jack, for the Cheddar.
If you don't have cider vinegar on hand, white wine vinegar or even a squeeze of lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.

Joesph Wiegand

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 5.0/ 5 ( 5 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (5)
  • Isidro Terry

    I made this salad ahead of time for a potluck, and it was so convenient to just toss it together right before serving. It was a crowd-pleaser!

  • Orlo Klein

    This is now my go-to recipe for broccoli salad. It's easy to make and always a hit!

  • Morris Paucek

    The dressing is perfectly balanced – not too sweet and not too tangy.

  • Kaley Wunsch

    This salad was a huge hit at our family barbecue! Everyone loved the combination of flavors and textures.

  • Justyn Abshire

    I tweaked the recipe a bit by adding some toasted pecans, and it was even better!

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