If you’re craving a salad that bursts with contrasting textures and bright flavors, then this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Bacon, and Cheddar Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. It’s a joyful mix of crunchy broccoli paired with the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries, the savory crunch of bacon, and the rich bite of sharp cheddar, all brought together with a luscious creamy dressing. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crisp, making it a showstopper for any lunch, picnic, or potluck table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
As simple as it seems, each ingredient in this recipe adds a special touch that makes the salad truly delightful. From fresh broccoli that provides a satisfying crunch, to the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the sweetness of cranberries, these essentials work harmoniously to create a colorful and flavorful dish.
- Broccoli florets (5-6 cups): Fresh and crisp, broccoli is the hearty base of this salad.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds a rich, tangy flavor and a creamy texture when mixed in.
- Dried cranberries (â…” cup): Bring a sweet and tart contrast that brightens every bite.
- Crumbled bacon (½ cup): Adds smoky, savory crunch that complements the salad’s creaminess.
- Salted sunflower seeds (½ cup): Provide an extra nutty crunch and a bit of saltiness to balance the flavors.
- Red onion, diced (â…“ cup): Offers a sharp bite and a splash of color.
- Mayonnaise (¾ cup): Forms the creamy base for the dressing that ties everything together.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Adds tanginess and lightens the richness of the mayo.
- White wine vinegar (1 ½ Tablespoons): Gives the dressing a mild acidity that brightens the salad.
- Sugar (3 Tablespoons): Sweetens the dressing just enough to balance the tartness.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle hint of spice for depth.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Bacon, and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by placing the vibrant broccoli florets, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, tangy dried cranberries, savory crumbled bacon, salted sunflower seeds, and diced red onion into a large mixing bowl. This colorful mix is the foundation of your salad and sets the stage with amazing textures and flavors.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Creamy Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy. This luscious dressing is what makes this recipe stand out, perfectly balancing sweet and tangy notes with a silky texture.
Step 3: Toss Salad with Dressing
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently toss everything until each bite is coated evenly with creamy goodness. This step is key to ensure every forkful delivers a perfect harmony of flavors.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving to allow all those enticing flavors to meld together. This chilling time also helps the broccoli soften slightly without losing its crunch, resulting in a salad that’s refreshing and satisfying.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Bacon, and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra sunflower seeds on top right before serving for an added crunch. You can also add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of green and freshness that complements the creamy, tangy notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or pork chops, bringing a crisp, cold contrast to any warm entree. It also works well alongside sandwiches, lightening up a hearty lunch with bright flavors and crunchy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancy touch, serve the salad in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or individual mason jars layered with ingredients to showcase the colorful mix. You can even sprinkle a little extra bacon on top and garnish with a small wedge of cheddar to make it extra inviting at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Bacon, and Cheddar Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
Freezing
Because of the fresh broccoli and creamy dressing, this salad does not freeze well. Freezing can cause the vegetables to become mushy and the dressing to separate, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days chilled in the fridge.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended. If you want a warm twist, consider serving it alongside a hot dish rather than warming the salad itself.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
It’s best to use fresh broccoli florets for the crunch and texture that make this salad special. Frozen broccoli tends to become too soft and watery once thawed, which can affect the overall taste and texture.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?
You can try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option, but it will slightly change the flavor and creaminess. Combining Greek yogurt with sour cream can keep a lovely tang while reducing fat.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace bacon with smoky tempeh or coconut bacon, use vegan cheese alternatives, and swap mayo and sour cream for plant-based versions. It’s a great way to keep all the delicious flavors without animal products.
Can I prepare this salad the night before?
Absolutely! In fact, letting the salad chill overnight allows the flavors to marry beautifully. Just give it a quick toss before serving, and it’s ready to shine.
What else can I add to the salad for extra crunch?
If you want to mix things up, toasted almonds, pecans, or even crispy fried onions are excellent additions. They bring subtle variations in flavor and texture that complement the existing ingredients wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Bacon, and Cheddar Recipe is such a joy to make and even more fun to eat. Its colorful mix of flavors and textures brings something special to the table every time. Whether you’re making it for a family meal, potluck, or just a refreshing side, you’re going to love how effortlessly it becomes a crowd favorite. Give it a try and watch it disappear before your eyes!
Print
Creamy Broccoli Salad with Cranberries, Bacon, and Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A vibrant and easy-to-make broccoli salad featuring fresh broccoli florets combined with sharp cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for gatherings, picnics, or everyday meals.
Ingredients
Salad:
- 5–6 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- â…” cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup crumbled bacon
- ½ cup salted sunflower seeds
- â…“ cup red onion, diced
Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli florets, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, crumbled bacon, salted sunflower seeds, and diced red onion until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill the salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together and for the salad to chill before serving.
Notes
- For best texture, chop the broccoli into bite-size florets.
- The salad can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated.
- Substitute dried cranberries with raisins or chopped dried cherries if preferred.
- Use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Adjust sugar in the dressing to taste for sweetness preference.
