Creamy Broccoli Salad (Ready in 15 Minutes!)

There are some recipes that quietly become legends at family gatherings. They aren’t flashy or complicated, but somehow they’re the first bowl scraped clean and the one everyone asks about before they leave. This Creamy Broccoli Salad is exactly that kind of recipe.

It’s crisp. It’s creamy. It’s just the right balance of fresh and indulgent. And best of all? It comes together in just 15 minutes.

If you’ve ever needed a quick side dish for a weeknight dinner, a last-minute potluck, or a backyard barbecue, this easy broccoli salad recipe will absolutely save the day. It’s the kind of dependable, no-fuss dish that feels both wholesome and comforting at the same time.

Let’s dig into why this healthy broccoli salad deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli Salad

There are plenty of broccoli salads out there, but this one hits all the right notes:

• Fresh crunch from raw broccoli
• Creamy, slightly sweet dressing
• Salty bites from crispy bacon
• Sharp richness from cheddar
• Subtle tang from apple cider vinegar

It’s a flavor combination that just works.

Unlike heavy, mayo-drenched salads, this version balances mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, making it lighter while still luxuriously creamy. The dressing clings to every floret without overwhelming the natural freshness of the broccoli.

And the best part? No cooking required (unless you’re crisping bacon). That means no oven, no stovetop juggling, and no heat-filled kitchen.

The Secret to Perfect Broccoli Salad Texture

The magic of this 15 minute salad recipe lies in the texture.

Raw broccoli is key. When chopped into small, bite-sized florets, it becomes crisp, fresh, and surprisingly tender once coated in dressing. The dressing slightly softens the broccoli after a short rest in the refrigerator, creating that ideal balance between crunchy and creamy.

If you’ve ever thought raw broccoli was too firm for salads, this recipe will change your mind.

Ingredients

• 5 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli. Chop into small, bite-sized florets and place in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sunflower seeds to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
5. Toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated in the creamy dressing.
6. Chill for at least 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
7. Give one final toss before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

That’s it. Simple, quick, and absolutely delicious.

Creamy Broccoli Salad (Ready in 15 Minutes!)

A crisp, creamy broccoli salad with bacon, cheddar, and sunflower seeds tossed in a light, tangy dressing. Ready in just 15 minutes and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 240

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Salad

• 5 cups broccoli florets finely chopped
• 0.33 cup red onion finely diced
• 0.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• 0.33 cup cooked bacon crumbled
• 0.25 cup sunflower seeds

Dressing

• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 0.25 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Method

 

1. Place chopped broccoli in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add red onion, cheddar cheese, bacon, and sunflower seeds.
3. Whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over broccoli mixture and toss thoroughly.
5. Chill 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Add sunflower seeds just before serving if making ahead for extra crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this easy broccoli salad recipe is how well it holds up.

• You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance.
• The flavors deepen as it sits.
• The broccoli softens slightly but keeps its satisfying crunch.

If making ahead, consider adding sunflower seeds just before serving to maintain maximum crunch.

Healthy Benefits of Broccoli

Beyond its irresistible taste and texture, this healthy broccoli salad offers some real nutritional perks.

Broccoli is packed with:

• Vitamin C
• Fiber
• Antioxidants
• Vitamin K
• Folate

Raw broccoli retains more of its vitamin C content compared to cooked versions, making this salad not just convenient but also nutritionally smart.

Greek yogurt adds protein and beneficial probiotics, giving the dressing a creamy boost without excess heaviness.

Flavor Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic version, you can easily customize it.

1. Sweet & Tangy Twist

Add 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet pop that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.

2. Extra Crunch

Stir in chopped almonds or pecans for added texture.

3. Low-Carb Option

Skip the honey and use a sugar-free alternative if desired.

4. Vegetarian Version

Omit the bacon and add smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.

5. Protein Boost

Add diced grilled chicken to transform it into a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This quick side dish pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken
• Burgers
• Barbecue ribs
• Roast turkey
• Baked salmon

It’s also perfect for:

• Potlucks
• Picnics
• Holiday dinners
• Meal prep lunches

Because it doesn’t wilt like leafy salads, it travels exceptionally well.

Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Salad

Chop Small

Smaller florets mean better dressing distribution and easier bites.

Dry Thoroughly

Excess water will thin out your dressing.

Balance the Sweetness

Adjust honey to taste. Some prefer a slightly sweeter salad; others love it more tangy.

Let It Rest

Even 10 minutes in the fridge makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

Common Questions

Can I blanch the broccoli?

You can, but it’s not necessary. Raw gives the best texture and retains nutrients.

How long does it last?

Stored in an airtight container, it lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze broccoli salad?

Freezing isn’t recommended due to the creamy dressing.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families

Life gets busy. Between work, school schedules, and everyday responsibilities, complicated recipes just don’t always fit.

This 15 minute salad recipe:

• Requires minimal prep
• Uses simple ingredients
• Needs no cooking (mostly)
• Tastes even better the next day

It’s dependable comfort food made fresh.

A Little Broccoli Salad History

Broccoli salad gained popularity in American kitchens during the 1970s and 1980s when creamy cold salads became staples at potlucks and church gatherings. Its staying power comes from its balance of indulgence and freshness.

Unlike pasta salads that can feel heavy, this creamy broccoli salad remains light and vibrant while still delivering satisfying richness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick side dish that feels both wholesome and crowd-pleasing, this Creamy Broccoli Salad is your answer.

It’s crisp yet creamy. Simple yet flavorful. Quick yet impressive.

And once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your most requested recipe.