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broccoli salad with dressing, cheese, and bacon bits in a white bowl.
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4.58 from 59 votes

Easy Broccoli Salad

This easy broccoli salad is crisp, creamy, and packed with bacon, cheddar, and fresh broccoli—perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and summer meals.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: broccoli, broccoli salad, summer salad
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 544kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • cup red onion, diced
  • ¼ cup sunflower seeds
  • ½ pound bacon, cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Whisk together vinegar, sugar, mayonnaise, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, combine broccoli, onion, sunflower seeds, cheese and bacon bits. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and mix together well.
  • Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Notes

Cut broccoli into small pieces: Smaller florets are easier to eat and soak up more flavor.
Let it chill: This step makes a big difference in taste and texture.
Use freshly cooked bacon: Crispy bacon adds the best flavor and crunch.
Don’t overdress: Start with less dressing and add more if needed.
Make it ahead: It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

Nutrition

Calories: 544kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 46g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 20g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 58mg | Sodium: 944mg | Potassium: 632mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 844IU | Vitamin C: 109mg | Calcium: 104mg | Iron: 2mg