This Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon is loaded with fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and a rich homemade dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, holidays, or an easy family dinner.Cream-based recipes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
Salad
6 cups fresh broccoli florets, bite-sized
1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
⅔ cup dried cranberries (Craisins)
⅔ cup red onion, finely diced
8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
½ cup roasted sunflower seeds
Creamy Dressing
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Cook the bacon until crispy in a skillet or oven.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli.
Cut into small, bite-sized florets for the best texture.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Apple cider vinegar
Honey
Dijon mustard
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Broccoli florets
Shredded cheddar cheese
Dried cranberries
Red onion
Crumbled bacon
Sunflower seeds
Pour the dressing over the salad.
Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Stir again just before serving for the best flavor.
Tips
Blanch the broccoli for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water if you prefer a slightly softer texture.
Add chopped pecans or sliced almonds for extra crunch.
Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise to lighten the dressing.
Make it a complete meal by adding diced grilled chicken.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly.
This creamy broccoli salad is a perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that everyone will ask you to make again!
