Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad

Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad is a delightful mix of crunchy broccoli, savory bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and sharp cheddar cheese. This salad is loaded with flavor and texture, making it the perfect side dish for a summer barbecue, potluck, or even as a hearty lunch. The tangy dressing combined with crispy bacon bits and fresh broccoli will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

  • 5 slices thick-cut bacon (about 9 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pound broccoli florets (about 7 cups)
  • 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)
  • 3 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes (about 1/2 cup)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Bacon:
    • Cut the 5 slices of thick-cut bacon into 1-inch pieces. Place them in a large skillet over medium heat and cook until browned and crisp, about 15 minutes.
    • Turn off the heat and use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  2. Prepare the Dressing:
    • Transfer 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat from the skillet into a large bowl and discard the rest.
    • Add the ranch dressing, white wine vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the bacon fat and whisk everything together until smooth.
  3. Prep the Salad Ingredients:
    • Cut the broccoli florets into rough 1/2- to 3/4-inch pieces and add them to the bowl with the dressing.
    • Finely chop the red onion and add it to the bowl as well.
    • Cut the cheddar cheese into 1/4-inch cubes and add it to the mixture.
  4. Assemble the Salad:
    • Coarsely chop the cooked bacon and add half of it to the salad. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated in the dressing.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish the salad with the remaining chopped bacon. You can serve this salad immediately at room temperature or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing cold option.

Cooking Tips:

  • Make it Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just wait to add the bacon until right before serving so it stays crispy.
  • Customizable: You can substitute ranch dressing with a homemade version or even a different dressing like Caesar or blue cheese for a twist.
  • Additions: Feel free to add other ingredients like sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, or sliced almonds for extra crunch and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Broccoli: This cruciferous vegetable is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and powerful antioxidants that promote overall health and digestion.
  • Bacon: While high in fat, bacon provides a savory flavor and protein boost. You can opt for turkey bacon or reduced-fat options for a lighter version.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Cheese offers calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle maintenance.
  • Ranch Dressing: Using a light or homemade version of ranch can reduce the calorie content while still providing creamy richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Burst of Flavor: The combination of savory bacon, creamy ranch, tangy vinegar, and sharp cheddar creates a mouth-watering mix of flavors.
  • Crunchy and Creamy: This salad offers a satisfying balance of textures, from the crisp broccoli to the creamy dressing and crunchy bacon.
  • Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in no time, making it perfect for busy days.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Low-Carb: Packed with vegetables and protein, this salad is a low-carb, keto-friendly dish.
  • Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe for different dietary preferences by using dairy-free cheese or plant-based bacon.

Why This Recipe Works: The combination of fresh, crisp broccoli with savory bacon and creamy ranch dressing makes this salad both delicious and satisfying. The sharp cheddar adds a punch of flavor, while the onions provide a subtle bite. The white wine vinegar gives the dressing a slight tang, cutting through the richness of the bacon and cheese for a well-balanced dish.

Conclusion: Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad is a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on its own as a light meal. With its bold flavors, crunchy texture, and versatility, this salad will quickly become a favorite at any gathering. Perfect for meal prep or last-minute sides, it’s easy to make and impossible to resist!

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Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 30mins

Description

Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad is a delightful mix of crunchy broccoli, savory bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and sharp cheddar cheese. This salad is loaded with flavor and texture, making it the perfect side dish for a summer barbecue, potluck, or even as a hearty lunch. The tangy dressing combined with crispy bacon bits and fresh broccoli will have everyone asking for seconds!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 5 slices thick-cut bacon (about 9 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pound broccoli florets (about 7 cups)
  • 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)
  • 3 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes (about 1/2 cup)

Instructions

  • Cook the Bacon:
    • Cut the 5 slices of thick-cut bacon into 1-inch pieces. Place them in a large skillet over medium heat and cook until browned and crisp, about 15 minutes.
    • Turn off the heat and use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Prepare the Dressing:
    • Transfer 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat from the skillet into a large bowl and discard the rest.
    • Add the ranch dressing, white wine vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the bacon fat and whisk everything together until smooth.
  • Prep the Salad Ingredients:
    • Cut the broccoli florets into rough 1/2- to 3/4-inch pieces and add them to the bowl with the dressing.
    • Finely chop the red onion and add it to the bowl as well.
    • Cut the cheddar cheese into 1/4-inch cubes and add it to the mixture.
  • Assemble the Salad:
    • Coarsely chop the cooked bacon and add half of it to the salad. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated in the dressing.
  • Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish the salad with the remaining chopped bacon. You can serve this salad immediately at room temperature or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing cold option.
  • Prep Time: 10mins
  • Cook Time: 15mins