This Creamy Bacon Pea Salad is a refreshing, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish—perfect for potlucks, BBQs, picnics, or a quick side for family meals. The sweet peas, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy dressing create an irresistible combination of flavors!
🫛 Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ medium red onion, diced
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese, cubed
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
🫛 Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Dressing
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and salt until smooth.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
2️⃣ Add the thawed peas, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, and cubed cheddar cheese to the bowl.
Step 3: Mix & Adjust
3️⃣ Gently stir everything together until the peas and other ingredients are well coated in the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
4️⃣ Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
30 Popular Questions & Answers About Creamy Bacon Pea Salad
General Recipe Questions
- What is creamy bacon pea salad?
- It’s a cold salad made with peas, bacon, cheddar cheese, red onion, and a creamy dressing.
- Do I need to cook the peas?
- No! Simply thaw frozen peas—they stay crisp and sweet.
- Can I use canned peas?
- You can, but frozen peas have better texture and flavor.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
- How long does it take to make?
- 10–15 minutes—super quick and easy!
Ingredient Substitutions
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
- Yes, but blanch them for 1–2 minutes in boiling water, then cool before using.
- What can I use instead of sour cream?
- Greek yogurt or cream cheese work well.
- Can I use white or yellow onion instead of red?
- Yes, but red onion adds milder sweetness and crunch.
- What cheese works best?
- Sharp cheddar is classic, but Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or gouda also work.
- Can I use turkey bacon?
- Yes, turkey bacon or even pancetta works as a lighter alternative.
Preparation & Cooking Questions
- Do I need to cook the bacon fresh?
- Freshly cooked bacon is crispier, but store-bought bacon bits work in a pinch.
- How do I thaw frozen peas quickly?
- Run them under cold water for 1–2 minutes and drain well.
- Should I chop the bacon finely?
- Yes! Smaller crumbles ensure every bite has even bacon distribution.
- How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?
- Drain the peas well before adding to the salad.
- Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
- Yes! This recipe easily scales up.
Storage & Leftovers
- How long does this salad last in the fridge?
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze creamy pea salad?
- No, the dressing may separate, and the texture won’t be as good.
- How do I refresh leftovers?
- Stir in a little extra mayo or sour cream before serving.
- Can I store it with the bacon mixed in?
- If making ahead, store bacon separately to keep it crispy.
- Will the peas get mushy over time?
- No, but they soften slightly after 1–2 days.
Customization & Variations
- How can I make this salad healthier?
- Use light mayo, Greek yogurt, and turkey bacon.
- Can I add more vegetables?
- Yes! Try diced bell peppers, celery, cucumbers, or shredded carrots.
- Can I add nuts for crunch?
- Slivered almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds add great texture.
- What if I want a tangier dressing?
- Add an extra splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
- Can I add protein to make it a meal?
- Yes! Grilled chicken, ham, or hard-boiled eggs make it more filling.
Serving Suggestions
- What dishes go well with this salad?
- Great with grilled meats, sandwiches, BBQ, or roasted potatoes.
- Can I serve this warm?
- It’s best served cold, but you can try a warm version with melted cheese.
- Can I use this salad as a sandwich filling?
- Yes! Try it in a pita, lettuce wrap, or on toast.
- How do I make this look extra fancy?
- Garnish with extra bacon, cheddar shreds, and fresh parsley.
- Can I bring this to a potluck?
- Absolutely! It’s perfect for large gatherings.
30 Tips for the Perfect Creamy Bacon Pea Salad
For the Peas
- Use frozen peas, not canned.
- Drain well after thawing.
- Blanch fresh peas for a brighter green color.
- Add a pinch of sugar to enhance sweetness.
- Use petite sweet peas for extra tenderness.
For the Dressing
- Use full-fat sour cream & mayo for the best texture.
- Add a little Dijon mustard for extra tang.
- If too thick, thin with a splash of milk.
- Add honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
- Use Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
For Extra Crunch & Flavor
- Toast the bacon for extra crispiness.
- Use real bacon, not store-bought bacon bits.
- Add chopped pickles for a zesty kick.
- Mix in sliced almonds or cashews.
- Stir in crisp lettuce or shredded cabbage for texture.
For Presentation
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- Sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
- Serve in a chilled bowl for extra freshness.
- Make it colorful by adding cherry tomatoes.
For Meal Prep & Storage
- Store dressing separately if making ahead.
- Keep in an airtight container for freshness.
- Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- If making for a crowd, double the recipe.
- Bring to room temp 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.
For Fun Variations
- Add diced hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Mix in crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist.
- Try pesto instead of mayo for a herby flavor.
- Use BBQ ranch dressing for a smoky taste.
- Serve as a dip with crackers or crostini.
This Creamy Bacon Pea Salad is a refreshing, crunchy, and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious! 🥗✨