This Creamy Bacon Pea Salad is a fresh, flavorful side dish packed with sweet peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a rich, tangy dressing. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory—making it a favorite for potlucks, BBQs, and family dinners.
Quick to prepare and even better after chilling, this salad is a reliable go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen green peas (thawed)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
Creamy Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley
How To Make Creamy Bacon Pea Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Peas
Thaw the frozen peas completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar (or lemon juice), sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, add peas, bacon, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
Pour the dressing over and mix gently until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Add Extras (Optional)
Fold in chopped eggs and fresh herbs if using.
Step 6: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors blend.
Step 7: Serve
Stir lightly and serve chilled.
Who Is This Recipe For?
- Anyone needing a quick, no-cook side dish
- BBQ lovers looking for a classic salad
- Families wanting a crowd-pleasing recipe
- Meal preppers who enjoy make-ahead dishes
Why It’s Great
- ✔ Quick and easy to prepare
- ✔ Creamy, crunchy, and flavorful
- ✔ Perfect for gatherings and potlucks
- ✔ Customizable with add-ins
- ✔ Tastes even better after chilling
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet (for bacon)
- Spoon or spatula
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days
- Freezer: Not recommended
- Tip: Stir before serving if stored
FAQ
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, just blanch them briefly and cool before using.
Can I make it lighter?
Use Greek yogurt instead of part of the mayonnaise.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but Colby Jack or mozzarella also work.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it’s even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Conclusion
This Creamy Bacon Pea Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers big taste with minimal effort. With its creamy dressing and crunchy mix-ins, it’s the perfect side for any meal or gathering.
