Broccoli Salad with Cheese and Bacon

Overhead vertical shot of broccoli cheese bacon salad in black bowl with striped black and white towel

5 from 8 votes

Broccoli Salad with Cheese and Bacon

Crisp broccoli florets mingle with savory bites of smoky bacon, tangy cheddar cheese, and zesty red onion in this broccoli salad. Each bite offers a delightful balance of textures and a terrific combination of rich, creamy, and savory notes.

Prep Time15

Total Time15

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Author: Mary Younkin

Ingredients

6 slices bacon about 6 ounces
1½ pounds broccoli about 4 cups of florets and matchsticks
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese cut into thin matchsticks
⅓ cup red onion finely chopped

Dressing Ingredients

½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon warm bacon grease
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper adjust to taste

Instructions

Cook the bacon however you like and transfer it to a paper towel to absorb some oil while it cools. (I recommend cooking bacon in the oven.) While the bacon is cooking, combine the broccoli, cheddar cheese, and red onion in a mixing bowl.
In a small bowl or glass measuring cup, stir together the mayonnaise, bacon grease, vinegar, sugar, and mustard. Taste and add salt only if needed.
Chop the bacon and add it to the bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
Refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving to allow the flavors to mingle. This will keep nicely for 2 days. Stir before serving.

Nutrition