Creamy Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe with Bacon and Cheese

If there’s one side dish that shows up at every family gathering, picnic, and church potluck I attend, it’s this Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe. And let me tell you—it never comes home with leftovers.

This salad is creamy. It’s crunchy. It’s a little bit sweet. And it’s packed with bacon and cheese. So really, how could anyone not love it?

It’s one of those make-ahead salads that only gets better with time, and it goes with just about everything. If you’re short on time but still want something homemade and crowd-pleasing, this is your go-to.

Let me show you how to make it—and why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box.

Why This Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try

I first had a version of this salad at a friend’s summer BBQ. I took one bite and immediately asked for the recipe. She smiled and said, “It’s my mom’s, from her Amish neighbor in Ohio.” Since then, I’ve tweaked it slightly (like adding more bacon because…well, obviously), and it’s become a staple in my home.

Here’s why I love it—and why you will too:

• Simple ingredients you already have
• No cooking except for frying bacon
• Kid-friendly (just call it a cheesy veggie salad!)
• Great for meal prep—it holds up well in the fridge
• Customizable with easy mix-ins like cranberries or sunflower seeds

This is comfort food with a veggie twist. Perfect for busy moms, beginner cooks, or anyone who needs a quick crowd-pleaser.

What You’ll Need for Amish Broccoli Salad

This salad is made with just 8 simple ingredients, most of which are pantry staples.

Ingredients

• 1 head broccoli, chopped into small florets
• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into small florets
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 pound bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Tip: You can buy pre-chopped broccoli and cauliflower if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s fresh and dry before mixing.

How to Make the Best Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe

Making this salad is incredibly simple. You only need about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an hour to chill before serving (though I’ve been known to sneak a bite early).

Instructions

1. Chop the veggies. Add chopped broccoli and cauliflower to a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, sugar, and salt.
3. Combine. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and stir well to coat evenly.
4. Add the good stuff. Stir in crumbled bacon and shredded cheese, saving a little of each for garnish.
5. Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
6. Serve. Top with reserved bacon and cheese and enjoy.

The Secret to Great Amish Broccoli Salad? Let It Sit.

One of the best things about this salad is how much better it gets after it rests. After a few hours—or even overnight—the flavors meld together, the dressing thickens slightly, and the whole thing just tastes more complete.

So if you can, make this the day before your event or dinner. I promise you’ll be glad you did.

Optional Add-Ins to Make It Your Own

This Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe is a classic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with it. Here are some popular add-ins to switch things up or suit your tastes:

Common Variations

• Amish Broccoli Salad with Vinegar: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing for tang.
• Amish Broccoli Salad with Raisins: Add 1/2 cup raisins for a chewy, sweet contrast.
• Amish Broccoli Salad with Cranberries: Dried cranberries add a pop of color and tart sweetness.
• Amish Broccoli Salad with Sunflower Seeds: Toss in 1/3 cup salted sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
• Amish Broccoli Salad Without Cauliflower: Just double the broccoli if you’re not a cauliflower fan.
• Keto Amish Broccoli Salad: Swap sugar with monk fruit sweetener and ensure low-carb mayo and sour cream.

Personally, I love mine just the way the Amish woman in Navarre made it—simple, salty, cheesy, and creamy. But if you’re feeling adventurous, go for it!

Family-Friendly Serving Ideas

This salad is great for potlucks and picnics, but it also makes the perfect side for weeknight meals. Here are some easy pairings:

• Grilled chicken thighs
• Burgers or sliders
• BBQ pulled pork
• Ham sandwiches
• Roasted pork chops

If you’re putting together a summer spread, pair this salad with:

👉 Creamy and satisfying classic potato salad
Sweet and tangy strawberry spinach salad with balsamic glaze
👉 Creamy pasta salad that’s perfect for potlucks

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad holds up beautifully in the fridge and is actually better the next day. Here’s how to store it:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Do not freeze. The texture of raw broccoli and cauliflower won’t survive the thaw.
• Meal prep tip: Prep the veggies and dressing separately and combine the night before serving for ultimate freshness.

Real-Life Tips for Better Results

• Dry the veggies well. If there’s water clinging to the broccoli or cauliflower, the dressing will get watery. Use a salad spinner if you have one.
• Use full-fat mayo and sour cream. It gives the creamiest texture and the best flavor.
• Make extra bacon. A few crumbles always mysteriously go missing at my house…
• Serve chilled. It’s meant to be cold and crisp, not room temp.

FAQs About Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe

What makes this an Amish recipe?
This style of creamy, vegetable-based salad is very popular in Amish communities. It’s made with garden-fresh ingredients and pantry staples—classic Amish cooking.

Can I make this salad without mayonnaise?
You can try Greek yogurt or a mayo alternative, but the flavor and texture will change.

Is there a dairy-free version?
You can use dairy-free sour cream and cheese substitutes, though the original version is very dairy-heavy.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you could also try Colby or Monterey Jack.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This is a great recipe to double or even triple for a party.

Is this salad good for kids?
Yes! Kids love the creamy dressing and cheese, and it’s a great way to sneak in some raw veggies.

Final Thoughts: A Salad You’ll Want to Make All Year Long

This Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe isn’t just for summer. It’s great year-round—whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, serving it alongside Sunday dinner, or meal-prepping for the week.

It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and it’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table. I’ve made it for holidays, birthdays, camping trips, and quiet weeknights when I just need something reliable.

If you make it, I’d love to hear what you think. Tag me on Pinterest @RitzyRecipes and show me your version! Did you add raisins? Skip the cauliflower? Make it keto? I want to see it all.

And if this recipe becomes one of your family’s favorites too, well—that makes me smile.

Happy cooking, friend. 💚

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