Bacon, cheese, broccoli, and onions are all you need to get this yummy Classic Broccoli Salad Recipe started. If broccoli is one of your favorite vegetables, also try this Broccoli Cheese Soup.
Broccoli Salad is a family favorite and served at basically every large family function or celebration. It also happens to be one of my husband’s favorite salads. So if I ever ask his opinion on what salad I should take to a picnic or potluck, this Classic Broccoli Salad Recipe is always his first suggestion.
More Summer Salad Recipes
- Potato Salad with Old Bay and Bacon
- Classic Macaroni Salad
- Mediterranean Couscous Salad
- Frog Eye Salad
- The Best Classic Potato Salad
- Five Minute Orange Fluff Jello Salad
There are a million different ways you can make broccoli salad, but I tend to stick to the classic, basic ingredients.
As basic as the ingredients are, there are two things I have noticed that make a difference. The cheese really does need to be sharp cheddar and the onion needs to be a red onion. Something about the sharp cheddar really brings all the flavors together nicely. The mild, sweet flavor of the red onion is also a must.
HOW TO MAKE CLASSIC BROCCOLI SALAD
- Combine broccoli, onion, cheese, and bacon in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar.
- Pour dressing over salad and mix until evenly coated.
- Cover and keep refrigerated.
- Enjoy!
This salad comes together so quickly and is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s definitely one you should keep on the docket for all your summer parties and get-togethers.
The dressing is just three basic ingredients. If you find you would like a little more on your salad, it is very easy to 1/3 the recipe and make a little extra.
Tips for making Classic Broccoli Salad Recipe
- For best flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese and red onion.
- Use a food processor or food chopper to finely chop the red onion.
- Make a day ahead of serving for all the flavors to really incorporate with one another.
- The salad will last up to a week in the refrigerator.
- 2-3 heads broccoli, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon pieces
- 1 cup real mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup white sugar
- 3 Tbsp red wine vinegar
- Combine broccoli, onion, cheese, and bacon in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar.
- Pour dressing over salad and mix until evenly coated.
- Cover and keep refrigerated.
- Enjoy!
Crowd-Pleasing Desserts
Made this tonight it’s really good
Oh good, I am glad you liked it.
Do you know roughly how many pieces of bacon are in the cup?
I would guess about 6-8 regular size slices.
By the way this is very good! I’m making it again! Ty
Thank you! So glad you liked it!
Highly recommend
Delish
Thanks Rita!
My third-time making this broccoli Salad!… I also added red seedless grapes& broccoli slaw. Yummy!
So glad you like it Gracia! 🙂
Have you made this salad with frozen broccoli?
Hi Sharon, I haven’t made it with frozen broccoli. My cousin does sometimes and I am not a fan of the way it comes out. The falvor is still pretty good, but the consistency of the broccoli is a little off. Hope that helps.
How long will this last in the fridge? Could i dress It and eat it all week? Or should i leave The dressing on the side?
Hi Ashly, Yes, It will last for up to a week. I would mix it first. I actually prefer this salad after it has been mixed for at least a day.
This salad is my first recipe to make from your blog—- delicious!!! #marchgiveaway
So glad you liked it! Thank you for entering the giveaway!
This the best recipe, we always make it when we have company over or for a party! So good! #Aprilgiveaway
Yay! I love hearing that Megan!
This recipe is one of my summer faves. Yours is the only broccoli salad recipe I use. I absolutely LOVE IT, especially with fresh broccoli from our local Farmers’ Market. #julygiveaway