If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish for your next potluck, family reunion, or holiday gathering, look no further than the classic layered salad. This vibrant and flavorful salad is a staple at Midwestern get-togethers and for good reason. It’s easy to make ahead and always a hit, much like the recipes you’d find from the Pioneer Woman herself.
This layered salad recipe is a timeless classic, often gracing family cookbooks passed down through generations. It’s a recipe that stands alongside other beloved family favorites, known for its simplicity and deliciousness. Think of it as the salad equivalent of comfort food, perfect for sharing and always bringing smiles to faces around the table.
While often referred to as a “7 layer salad,” this dish is delightfully more complex than the name suggests. It’s really a “more than 7 layer salad,” featuring layers of crisp lettuce, crunchy vegetables, protein-rich eggs, and savory bacon, all topped with a creamy, slightly sweet dressing and a blanket of cheddar cheese.
The beauty of this layered salad lies not only in its vibrant presentation but also in its practicality. The unique mayonnaise-based dressing acts as a protective barrier, keeping the lettuce and other ingredients fresh and crisp, even when prepared a day in advance. This make-ahead quality is what makes it an ideal choice for potlucks and large gatherings, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your guests rather than last-minute meal preparations.
The layers in this classic salad typically include:
- Crisp Iceberg Lettuce: The foundation, providing a refreshing crunch.
- Celery: Adding another layer of texture and subtle flavor.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Offering protein and richness.
- Sweet Peas: A touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Green Bell Pepper: For a bit of bite and freshness.
- Diced Onion: Adding a savory depth.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty, smoky, and irresistible topping.
The dressing is truly the magic element that ties all these layers together. A simple yet perfect blend of mayonnaise and sugar creates a sweet and tangy coating that complements the savory ingredients beautifully. This dressing not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the salad remains fresh and prevents the lettuce from wilting.
For serving, you can opt for a traditional 9×13 inch baking dish, which is perfect for potlucks and easy transport. However, for a more elegant presentation, consider taking inspiration from the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, and layering the salad in a glass trifle bowl. This showcases the vibrant layers and adds a touch of sophistication to this classic dish. No matter how you choose to present it, be ready to share the recipe because everyone will be asking for it after just one bite!
Classic 7 Layer Salad Recipe
This Classic 7 Layer Salad Recipe is an easy and traditional salad perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family parties. This Seven Layer Salad with Dressing Recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 16
Author: My Farmhouse Table
Ingredients
- 1 head Iceberg Lettuce, torn
- 1 cup Diced Celery
- 4 Hard Boiled Eggs, diced
- 1 package (10 oz) Frozen Peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup Diced Green Pepper
- 1 Onion, diced
- 8 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups Mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
- Into a large glass container (like a 9×13 inch baking pan or trifle bowl) layer torn lettuce, diced celery, hard boiled eggs, thawed peas, diced green pepper, onion, and crumbled bacon.
- In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise and sugar. Spread over the top of the salad after the bacon layer.
- Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover container with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 8-12 hours.
Recipe Notes
Many of the listed ingredients can be changed or substituted to fit your tastes and preferences.
