Go Back
Easy Bacon Broccoli Salad Recipe with Creamy Sweet-Tangy Dressing

Easy Bacon Broccoli Salad Recipe

A classic American broccoli salad made with raw broccoli, crisp bacon, red onion, dried fruit, sunflower seeds, and a creamy sweet-tangy dressing. It is an easy make-ahead side dish for potlucks, cookouts, holidays, and family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad
  • 2 large heads, about 1 1/2-2 lb total Large broccoli heads, cut into small bite-size florets
  • 8 slices Bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup Red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/2 cup Roasted, unsalted sunflower seeds
Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Apple-cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Cook the bacon in a skillet or bake it at 400°F until crisp, then drain it on paper towels. Let it cool before crumbling, and reserve a little for topping if desired.
  2. Cut the broccoli into small bite-size florets. Peel and finely dice the stalks if desired, since the tender stalk pieces add crunch and help reduce waste.
  3. Whisk the mayonnaise, apple-cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until the dressing is smooth and evenly combined.
  4. Add the broccoli, bacon, red onion, dried cranberries or raisins, and sunflower seeds to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss thoroughly.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes; chilling for 1–2 hours is even better. Toss again just before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Notes

For a slightly lighter, tangier dressing, replace 1/4 cup of the mayonnaise with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Reserve a little bacon and sunflower seed to sprinkle over the salad immediately before serving so they stay crisp.