Crispy Broccoli and Bacon Salad with Creamy Dressing

Broccoli bacon salad — a simple dish that delivers a big flavor punch.

Tender broccoli florets meet smoky, crumbled bacon, crunchy almond slivers, and a touch of sweet red bell pepper, all brought together with a creamy homemade ranch-style dressing. The result is a satisfying broccoli bacon salad that’s both comforting and bright.

This salad is a favorite with kids and adults alike. The bacon, almonds, and creamy dressing make it feel indulgent, while the broccoli keeps it wholesome. It’s excellent alongside weeknight dinners and makes a tasty leftover lunch the next day.

It’s also a welcome addition to holiday tables for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, and a reliable choice for potlucks and covered-dish gatherings.

What You’ll Need

For the Salad:

4 cups broccoli, chopped

5 slices cooked bacon (about ½ cup), crumbled

½ cup almond slivers

¼ cup red bell pepper (about 1 mini pepper), chopped

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Dressing:

¼ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup sour cream or plain yogurt

¼ cup milk or buttermilk

⅛ teaspoon each salt and ground black pepper

¼ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon dry parsley

¼ teaspoon dry chives

½ teaspoon dry dill weed

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (from half a lemon)

How to Make

Whisk all dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Place the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, almond slivers, and chopped red bell pepper in a medium-to-large bowl. Toss lightly to combine.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

For best flavor, chill the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the ingredients to meld. You can also prepare it the night before for even better results.

Tips

Make this salad ahead of time so the dressing has time to soak into the broccoli for a softer texture and deeper flavor. The broccoli will soften slightly as it absorbs the dressing, creating a more harmonious dish.

Serve With

This broccoli bacon salad pairs well with grilled burgers, salmon patties, meatloaf, or simply as a side to roasted or grilled proteins. It complements both casual weeknight meals and special-occasion menus.

Other Salads to Love

Mediterranean cucumber salad with lemon dressing

Shaved Brussels sprouts salad with honey-lime dressing

Simple potato salad with bacon

Carrot raisin salad (quick & delicious)

📋 Recipe

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