Name: Amish Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups broccoli florets; 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion; 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional); 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons sugar

Crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor, Amish Broccoli Salad is the kind of side dish that instantly upgrades any meal. This salad blends crisp broccoli florets with savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy-sweet dressing that brings everything together in the best way. It’s a crowd-pleaser at picnics and potlucks, yet simple enough for a weekday dinner.

What makes this salad stand out is its balance of textures and flavors. You’ve got the crunch of fresh veggies, the richness of cheese, the smoky bite of bacon, and a creamy dressing that’s both slightly sweet and tangy. If you’ve never had it before, this is one of those dishes that might surprise you with how addictive it is.

What Kind of Bacon Should I Use?

For the best texture and flavor, thick-cut bacon is ideal. It adds a hearty, meaty crunch that holds its own against the crisp broccoli. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter option or even a plant-based bacon substitute to keep things vegetarian-friendly.

Ingredients for the Amish Broccoli Salad

Broccoli Florets: The star of the show. Use fresh, firm broccoli chopped into bite-sized pieces for that signature crunch.

Crispy Bacon: Adds savory, smoky flavor and a crispy contrast to the creamy dressing.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a bold flavor that cuts through the sweetness of the dressing.

Red Onion: Adds a zippy bite and color contrast. Slice it thin so it blends well.

Sunflower Seeds (optional): Add nutty crunch and extra texture.

Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the creamy dressing.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Gives the dressing its tangy kick.

Sugar: Just a bit to balance the acidity and create that irresistible sweet-tangy flavor.

How To Make the Amish Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Start by rinsing your fresh broccoli and chopping it into small, bite-sized florets. Make sure it’s dry before mixing so the dressing clings properly.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Fry the bacon until crispy, then transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang to your preference.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, red onions, sunflower seeds, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Fold in the crumbled bacon last so it keeps its crunch. Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy!

Serving and Storing Amish Broccoli Salad

This salad is best served chilled, making it ideal for make-ahead prep. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or just about any summer dish. If you’re serving at a gathering, keep it cold until ready to eat.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. Just note, the bacon will soften over time—if you’re meal-prepping, consider adding it right before serving for optimal crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Amish Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after it sits in the fridge for a few hours. Just hold off on adding the bacon until right before serving.

Is it possible to make this salad dairy-free?

Yes. You can skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheddar alternative. The flavor will still be delicious.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayo?

You can! Greek yogurt gives it a tangier flavor and a protein boost. Use full-fat for the best texture.

What other veggies can I add?

Cauliflower florets, shredded carrots, or peas are all great additions if you want to bulk it up.

How do I keep the onions from being too strong?

If red onions are too pungent for your taste, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh is highly recommended for the best crunch, but if you must use frozen, thaw and pat it dry very well before mixing.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you loved this Amish Broccoli Salad, here are a few more fresh and flavorful dishes worth trying:

Honeycrisp Broccoli Salad for a fruity crunch twist.
Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Salad if you’re craving something sweet and creamy.
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens for a hearty, healthy lunch option.
Super Crunch Salad to load up on all things crispy and satisfying.
Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies for a warm side dish alternative.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use sunflower seeds? Swap in turkey bacon? Or maybe added some cauliflower or peas?

I love hearing your twists and tweaks on these recipes. And don’t forget to check out more of my everyday recipe creations on Pinterest – Life with Nina.

Amish Broccoli Salad

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

Amish Broccoli Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and tangy side dish made with fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, and a sweet vinegar dressing. It’s easy to make, perfect for potlucks or summer BBQs, and can be made ahead to save time. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and bold flavors.