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