This Creamy Broccoli & Bacon Salad is crunchy, savory, and deliciously satisfying. With crisp raw broccoli, smoky bacon, juicy raisins or cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and a creamy tangy dressing, it’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. This classic picnic and potluck favorite is a crowd-pleasing dish that works for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, and meal prep alike.
The creamy dressing lightly coats each bite without feeling heavy, while the sweet-and-savory mix of ingredients keeps it refreshing and addictive. The bacon adds richness and crunch, while the vinegar and lemon brighten everything up. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or enjoying it as a hearty side, this salad always disappears fast.
Easy to prepare ahead and great chilled, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a crunchy, creamy bowl of comfort. It’s everything you love about a classic deli broccoli salad — but fresher, lighter, and even more flavorful.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Simple ingredients give this salad its signature crunch and creamy finish — and it’s easy to customize.
Broccoli: Fresh florets chopped small for easy eating. Blanch lightly if you prefer softer texture.
Bacon: Cooked crispy and crumbled. Substitute turkey bacon for lighter version or omit for vegetarian and add roasted chickpeas.
Red Onion: Adds sharp bite. Soak slices in cold water to mellow if needed, or swap with green onion.
Sunflower Seeds: Provide nutty crunch. Substitute almonds, pecans, pumpkin seeds, or omit for nut-free.
Dried Cranberries or Raisins: Add chewy sweetness. Fresh grapes or chopped apples are also great.
Cheddar Cheese (optional): Shredded cheddar adds richness. Omit for dairy-free or lighter option.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cutting board & knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or oven for cooking bacon
- Whisk or spoon
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- With Cauliflower: Add chopped cauliflower for extra crunch.
- Apple Crunch: Add diced apples for freshness.
- Greek Yogurt Swap: Replace some mayo with Greek yogurt for lighter dressing.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based bacon and vegan mayo.
- Extra Cheese: Add cubed cheddar or crumbled feta.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli & Bacon Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 6 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or extra mayo)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt & pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
About 15 minutes — plus 30 minutes chill time for best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Ingredients
Chop broccoli into small bite-size florets. Dice onion and cook bacon until crispy, then crumble.
2. Mix Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, onion, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, and optional cheddar.
3. Make the Dressing
Whisk together mayo, Greek yogurt, vinegar, lemon, honey, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.
4. Toss to Coat
Pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly coated.
5. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate 30 minutes before serving for best texture and flavor. Serve chilled.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
Small tips help make this classic salad even better.
- Chop broccoli small: Better dressing coverage, easier to eat.
- Chill before serving: Enhances flavor and softens broccoli slightly.
- Balance sweetness: Adjust honey or vinegar to taste.
- Add bacon right before serving: Keeps pieces crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes — this salad holds well up to 2–3 days. Add bacon just before serving for crunch.
Can I blanch the broccoli?
Yes — briefly steam or blanch for 30–45 seconds, then shock in ice water to keep color and crunch.
Can I make it without mayo?
Use Greek yogurt or a yogurt-mayo combo, or a creamy vegan mayonnaise alternative.
What can I use instead of bacon?
Turkey bacon, smoked almonds, tofu bacon, or roasted chickpeas work well for crunch and flavor.