Classic Broccoli Salad

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE ?

Easy Summer Side Dishes: Classic Broccoli Salad That Steals the Show at Every Cookout

I brought this to my sister’s cookout last weekend and watched three different people go back for seconds before the burgers even came off the grill. By the time we sat down to eat, the pan was practically scraped clean.

There’s something about this cold, crunchy broccoli salad that just hits different at summer gatherings. The creamy dressing clings to every floret, the bacon adds that salty-smoky bite, and the sharp cheddar and red onion bring the perfect balance. It’s the kind of potluck salad people line up for — my mom’s version was legendary at every family reunion.

This broccoli salad is embarrassingly easy to make and always one of the first dishes to disappear. It’s crisp, creamy, savory, and just the right amount of sweet — the ultimate make-ahead BBQ side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 (12 oz) bags raw broccoli florets (about 8–9 cups)
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 6–8 strips bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Cut broccoli into small, bite-sized florets for easy eating.
2. In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli florets, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and salt until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) before serving. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills.
6. Give it a quick stir right before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

This easy summer side dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, and all your favorite BBQ recipes. It travels well and tastes even better the next day.

Would you keep it classic or add raisins, sunflower seeds, or dried cranberries? Let me know in the comments!

Classic Broccoli Salad

Crisp broccoli florets tossed with bacon, sharp cheddar, red onion, and a creamy sweet-tangy dressing. This easy summer side dish and potluck favorite is make-ahead friendly and always disappears fast at cookouts and BBQs.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 12 oz bags raw broccoli florets
• ½ cup red onion finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 6 –8 strips bacon cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• whisk
• Knife & cutting board

Method

 

1. Cut broccoli into small bite-sized florets.
2. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, cheddar, and crumbled bacon.
3. Whisk together mayo, vinegar, sugar, pepper, and salt.
4. Pour dressing over broccoli mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Cover and chill at least 1 hour before serving.
6. Stir before serving.

Notes

Make-ahead: Best when made 4–24 hours in advance.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Pro Tip: Use raw broccoli for maximum crunch. Cook bacon extra crispy.
Variations: Add raisins, dried cranberries, or sunflower seeds for extra texture and sweetness.
Perfect for: Easy summer side dishes, potluck salads, BBQ recipes, and make-ahead cookout sides.