Crisp Broccoli Salad Recipe with Bacon, Cheddar & Creamy Dressing

This broccoli salad is an easy, refreshing summer side made with crisp broccoli, real bacon, dried cranberries, salted sunflower seeds, and a simple homemade dressing. It’s crunchy, slightly sweet and tangy, and perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or casual family gatherings.

This is one of the best broccoli salads I’ve made. It uses fresh ingredients and comes together quickly, making it a go-to side during warm months. Serve it alongside grilled baby back ribs, Instant Pot BBQ chicken, or a bacon cheeseburger for a complete summer meal.

Broccoli Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Broccoli: Cut into small, bite-sized florets so each forkful includes broccoli plus other mix-ins.
• Onion: Finely diced red onion adds sharpness; omit if you prefer a milder salad.
• Cranberries: Dried cranberries give a chewy sweetness; raisins work as a substitute.
• Sunflower Seeds: Salted sunflower seeds add crunch and nutty flavor; use unsalted if you want to limit sodium.
• Bacon Bits: Real bacon bits are recommended for the best flavor. You can also cook and chop bacon at home.
• Mayonnaise: Light mayonnaise works well if you want fewer calories, but use your preferred mayo.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds bright acidity that balances the mayonnaise and sugar.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness to harmonize with the vinegar and dried fruit.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste.

How to make Broccoli Salad

• Combine broccoli florets, diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and real bacon bits in a large bowl.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
• Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour so the flavors meld. Serve chilled.

Tips for making the best broccoli salad recipe

• Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving so the dressing softens the broccoli slightly and the flavors blend.
• Use real bacon bits or crisp chopped cooked bacon for richer flavor; imitation bacon lacks the same savory depth.
• Cut broccoli small so each bite includes a mix of ingredients—this improves texture and eating experience.
• If you prefer a lighter dressing, swap half the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt.

How to store broccoli salad

When the dressing is mixed into the salad, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you keep the dressing separate and only combine before serving, the components will stay fresher for up to 4 days.

Other favorite side dishes

• 7 Layer Dip
• Easy Grilled Pineapple
• Cucumber and Dill Baguettes
• Pineapple Mango Salsa

Have you tried this recipe?

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