Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Salad with Bacon

This Broccoli Cheddar Salad is a keto side dish that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of crunch — a perfect mix of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon all tossed in a smooth, sugar-free dressing. Whether it’s for a barbecue, potluck, or meal prep, this salad adds color and comfort to any table.

Why You’ll Love It

This recipe is one of those “make it once, crave it forever” dishes. It’s got that classic creamy texture and bold flavor balance — the salty bacon, the crisp broccoli, and that hit of sharp cheese in every bite. Best of all, it’s simple to throw together and keeps beautifully in the fridge.

Key Ingredients

Broccoli Florets: Fresh, crisp, and perfect for soaking up the dressing.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds richness and flavor.
Bacon: Brings a smoky, savory crunch to every bite.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds brightness and balances the creamy base.

Chef’s Tip

For extra texture, toss in a handful of chopped almonds or sunflower seeds just before serving. It adds a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.

Serving Ideas

This salad pairs wonderfully with:

A cold sparkling water with lemon for a light finish.

Grilled chicken or steak for an easy meal.

Bunless burgers at your next cookout.

Print Pin

Broccoli Cheddar Salad

This creamy broccoli cheddar salad is a classic keto side dish featuring crisp broccoli, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon in a tangy, sugar-free dressing. Perfect for barbecues or weekday meals.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword Broccoli, keto, low-carb, Salad

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings servings

Calories 250kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Knife
Skillet

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets chopped small
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp preferred
6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup red onion finely chopped

Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise sugar-free
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp erythritol or monk fruit sweetener optional, for sweetness
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and red onion.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, erythritol, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Pour dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.