Paula Deen Broccoli Salad Recipe

This Paula Deen Broccoli Salad is a creamy and crunchy recipe, which is made with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect side dish for potlucks and picnics, ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

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Paula Deen Broccoli Salad Ingredients

For the Salad:

1 Head Broccoli, cut into bite-size pieces
½ cup Cherry Tomatoes, cut in half
8 ounces Cheddar Cheese, cut into small pieces
½ cup Raisins
½ Cup Red Onions, diced
8 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled

For the Dressing:

1 cup Mayonnaise
¼ cup Granulated Sugar
2 Tablespoons White Vinegar

How To Make Paula Deen Broccoli Salad

Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, halved cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese pieces, raisins, diced red onions, and crumbled bacon. Gently stir to combine everything.
Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sugar, and white vinegar until the dressing is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing mixture over the broccoli mixture. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve cold.

Recipe Tips

How to get the best texture? The key is to cut the broccoli into very small, bite-size florets. This ensures that every bite has a perfect mix of ingredients and is well-coated in the creamy dressing.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, this is a great make-ahead dish. For the best texture, you can combine all the salad ingredients except for the bacon and make the dressing separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Toss with the dressing and add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.
How do I cut the broccoli for this salad? Use both the florets and the tender parts of the stem. Discard the very tough, woody bottom of the stalk. Cutting everything into small, uniform pieces makes the salad easier to eat.
Can I make the dressing less sweet? Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your preference. Start with half the amount of sugar, taste the dressing, and add more until you reach your desired sweetness.

What To Serve With Broccoli Salad

This classic side dish is a staple at potlucks and BBQs, and it pairs perfectly with:

Grilled chicken or burgers
Pulled pork sandwiches
BBQ ribs
Fried chicken

How To Store Broccoli Salad

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 2 days, as the broccoli may soften and the dressing can become watery over time.

Broccoli Salad Nutrition Facts

Calories: 481 kcal
Protein: 13g
Fat: 38g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 16g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely. While cheddar is classic, you could also use Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Do I have to use raisins?

No, the raisins are optional. If you like a sweet and savory combination but don’t care for raisins, you can substitute them with dried cranberries for a tart flavor.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing or use a sugar substitute.

Try More Recipes:

Paula Deen House Seasoning Recipe
Paula Deen Tomato Pie Recipe