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Crispy Loaded Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Sharp Cheddar

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A crunchy and flavorful broccoli salad featuring crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for quick snacks, potlucks, or as a side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 6–8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds, toasted (optional)
  • 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Place 6-8 strips of bacon in a cold skillet and turn the heat to medium. Cook, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Once cool, crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Prep the broccoli: While the bacon cooks, rinse 4 cups of broccoli florets and spin or pat dry thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
  3. Chop the other ingredients: Finely dice 1/4 cup red onion and cube or shred 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese. If using sunflower seeds, toast them lightly in a dry pan for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli, crumbled bacon, cheddar, red onion, toasted sunflower seeds, and 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  6. Chill before serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and the broccoli crisp up a bit. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Dry broccoli thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Slow cook bacon over medium heat for best crispness. Use block sharp cheddar for better texture and flavor. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Add sunflower seeds just before serving to keep them crunchy. Bacon grease can be saved for other recipes.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, cheddar cheese, crispy salad, potluck recipe, quick salad, loaded broccoli salad

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