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Creamy Cucumber Cheddar Bacon

Featured in Hearty Main Courses.

Combine sliced cucumbers, shredded cheddar, and crispy crumbled bacon for an irresistible dish full of creamy and savory flavors. Toss gently with ranch dressing or sour cream, and add a sprinkle of dill for herbal brightness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then let rest briefly for the flavors to mingle. Serve chilled for a refreshing, crunchy treat that's simple yet full of bold, satisfying textures and tastes. This easy, flavorful side is a hit at summer gatherings or as a quick indulgence when you're craving something cool and savory.

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Ranah
Updated on Fri, 30 May 2025 15:50:12 GMT
A container of bacon and cheese stuffed cucumbers. Pin it
A container of bacon and cheese stuffed cucumbers. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

Creamy cucumber cheddar bacon salad is the cool satisfying answer when you want big flavor with minimal effort. The crisp cucumber and the salty bacon play off each other in the best way while sharp cheddar and creamy ranch dressing pull it all together. It is my solution for summer picnics or last minute side dishes that never fail to disappear from the table.

One summer I brought this to a backyard cookout not expecting it to be the hero dish but when half the guests requested the recipe I knew it was a keeper

Ingredients

  • Cucumbers: Choose firm English cucumbers for tender skin and fewer seeds or peel and deseed regular cucumbers for a milder crunch
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Go for sharp cheddar to stand up to the other flavors freshly grated melts best into the mix
  • Cooked and crumbled bacon: Freshly made bacon adds the best smoky flavor but good quality bacon bits work if pressed for time
  • Ranch dressing or sour cream: Use full fat for best creaminess and rich texture or try a Greek yogurt version for a tangy twist
  • Dill: This aromatic herb introduces a fresh bright lift use fresh dill when possible dried dill works in a pinch
  • Salt and pepper: Use sea salt and cracked black pepper for the cleanest flavors season to taste just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Cucumbers:
Wash and dry cucumbers thoroughly then slice them thinly about one quarter inch thick for the perfect bite If using regular cucumbers peel and remove seeds for best texture
Mix in Creamy Base:
Add sliced cucumbers to a large mixing bowl and gently toss with ranch dressing or sour cream until each piece is evenly coated The creamy layer keeps the cucumbers crisp while adding a tangy flavor
Add Cheese and Bacon:
Scatter shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon over the cucumbers Add dill if using Carefully fold the ingredients together making sure every bite gets a bit of everything
Season and Combine:
Taste and season with salt and pepper starting light and adding more if needed Gently stir to combine so as not to bruise the cucumbers
Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least ten minutes This resting time lets the flavors meld If you are short on time serve immediately for a refreshing crunchier texture
A container of bacon and cheese cucumber salad. Pin it
A container of bacon and cheese cucumber salad. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

Dill is my secret ingredient that always brings this salad alive I remember my mom always garnished every salad with fresh dill which made even the simplest cucumber salad taste gourmet

Storage Tips

Creamy cucumber cheddar bacon salad is best eaten the same day because cucumbers release water as they sit For leftovers store in an airtight container in the fridge for no more than twenty four hours Give it a quick drain or stir before eating to redistribute the dressing

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ranch dressing for sour cream or use half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt for a tangy boost For the bacon turkey bacon or even smoked almonds give a similar smoky crunch For a vegetarian take skip the bacon and use roasted sunflower seeds

A container of food with bacon and cheese. Pin it
A container of food with bacon and cheese. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

Serving Suggestions

This salad is a natural match with grilled burgers barbecue chicken or sandwiches It makes a cool lunch on its own or can be scooped onto crackers for a party appetizer Sometimes I'll tuck a scoop into pita bread with lettuce for a simple wrap

Cultural Note

Cucumber salads pop up all over the world from creamy versions in Midwest American kitchens to bright dill salads in Eastern Europe This one blends American bacon and cheddar traditions with that timeless cucumber crunch for a truly shareworthy bowl

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cucumber works best?

English cucumbers are ideal for their tender texture and minimal seeds, but peeled and deseeded regular cucumbers are a great substitute.

→ Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Freshly cooked bacon delivers optimal flavor and texture, though pre-cooked bacon bits are convenient and work well if short on time.

→ Is dill necessary?

Dill is optional, but it adds a fresh, herby note. Feel free to omit or adjust according to your preference.

→ How long should it chill before serving?

Chill the salad for at least 10 minutes, or let it sit for 5–10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.

→ Can I substitute ranch with sour cream?

Yes, both ranch dressing and sour cream work well as the creamy base. You can use your favorite or combine both for extra flavor.

Creamy Cucumber Cheddar Bacon

Sliced cucumbers, cheddar, and bacon tossed in a creamy dressing with a hint of dill for a refreshing crunch.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
10 Minutes
By: Ranah

Category: Hearty Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (Serves 4 as a side)

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 to 3 cups (approximately 320–480 g) sliced cucumbers
02 120 ml shredded cheddar cheese
03 55 g cooked and crumbled bacon
04 120 ml ranch dressing or sour cream

→ Seasoning

05 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
06 Salt, to taste
07 Ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Place sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl. Gently toss with ranch dressing or sour cream to coat evenly.

Step 02

Fold in shredded cheddar, cooked crumbled bacon, and dill if using until ingredients are distributed throughout.

Step 03

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing gently for even seasoning.

Step 04

Cover and chill for 10 minutes before serving to intensify flavors, or serve immediately for a crisp texture.

Notes

  1. English cucumbers offer fewer seeds and a tender texture; peel and deseed standard cucumbers if preferred.
  2. Freshly cooked bacon yields superior flavor, though ready-made bacon bits are suitable for convenience.
  3. Allowing the prepared salad to rest for several minutes before serving helps the flavors meld.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Large spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains milk due to cheddar cheese and ranch dressing or sour cream.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 5 g
  • Protein: 9 g