1-Step 1: Prep the broccoli

Start by washing 1 bunch of fresh broccoli and cutting it into small bite-size pieces. Smaller pieces make the salad easier to eat and help the dressing coat every bite. If you prefer a softer texture, lightly steam the broccoli for 1 to 2 minutes. If you like more crunch, you can use raw broccoli instead.

After steaming, drain the broccoli well and let it cool before mixing. This keeps the dressing from thinning out and helps the salad hold its texture. If you are making this ahead, cooling the broccoli fully matters even more.

2-Step 2: Cook the bacon

Cook 6 slices of no-sugar bacon until crisp, then chop it into small pieces. Crisp bacon gives the salad a nice salty crunch that balances the creamy dressing. Let it cool for a few minutes so it does not soften the broccoli when you toss everything together.

If you want to save time, you can cook the bacon earlier in the day or use already cooked bacon that fits your low-carb plan. Just make sure it is still crisp before mixing it in.

3-Step 3: Mix the dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons vinegar, and 3 packets of granular sweetener, which is about 6 teaspoons. Whisk until the dressing looks smooth and creamy. The vinegar adds tang, while the sweetener balances the sharpness and gives the salad that classic broccoli salad flavor.

If you prefer a tangier taste, you can add a little more vinegar. If you want a slightly sweeter finish, taste the dressing and adjust it before adding the broccoli.

4-Step 4: Combine the broccoli and cheese

Add the cooled broccoli and 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently so the broccoli gets evenly coated. The cheddar brings a savory bite and helps make the salad feel more filling, which is one reason this Keto Broccoli Salad With Bacon works so well as a side or light lunch.

If you are using a dairy-free substitute, add it at this stage just like you would regular cheese. The salad still tastes great with a non-dairy alternative.

5-Step 5: Add the bacon and optional mix-ins

Now stir in the chopped bacon. If you want extra flavor and texture, add 1/4 cup chopped onion and 1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds. The onion adds sharpness, while sunflower seeds bring a nice nutty crunch. Both are optional, so you can leave them out if you want a simpler salad.

This is also the best time to add extra low-carb vegetables if you want a bigger bowl. Chopped cauliflower, cucumber, arugula, kale, spinach, or avocado all work well with the creamy dressing and bacon.

6-Step 6: Taste, chill, and serve

Taste the salad and adjust if needed. You may want a bit more vinegar for brightness or a touch more sweetener for balance. If you are serving it right away, it is ready to go once everything is mixed. If you have time, chill it for 15 to 30 minutes so the flavors meld a little more.

For the best texture, serve dressing on the side when you are not eating immediately. This keeps the broccoli crisp and stops the salad from turning soft. That is especially useful for picnics, packed lunches, and meal prep containers.