Loaded Cauliflower Salad is everything you love about loaded potato salad in a scrumptious LOW CARB form! Seriously, no one could even tell- it is just simply incredible! Loaded with bacon and cheese!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Loaded Cauliflower Salad is one of those recipes that surprises people in the best way. It has all the flavors you crave from a classic loaded potato salad, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, green onions, and a creamy, tangy dressing, but without the carb overload that usually comes with it. The cauliflower stays tender but not mushy, giving you that perfect bite that actually feels satisfying, not like a sad substitute.
What really makes this recipe special is how balanced it is. It’s rich and comforting, but still feels light enough that you don’t walk away feeling heavy or sluggish. It works just as well for a casual family dinner as it does for cookouts, potlucks, or meal prep for the week. Even people who swear they “don’t like cauliflower” usually go back for seconds, which honestly says everything.
It’s also one of those dishes that somehow gets better after it chills. The flavors have time to meld, the dressing clings to every little floret, and the bacon stays bold and smoky. If you’re low carb or keto, this is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re not missing out on anything at all.
It takes a few simple ingredients that everyone usually already has right in their kitchen.
This salad is light, fresh and perfect for a summer side dish that pairs perfectly with hot dogs, cheeseburgers, steak or even chicken right off the grill!
Loaded Cauliflower Salad FAQ
Is this cauliflower salad really low carb?
Yes. Cauliflower is naturally low in carbs and much lower than potatoes. When paired with bacon, cheese, and a creamy dressing, this salad fits perfectly into low carb and keto lifestyles while still feeling hearty and filling.
Can I make this cauliflower salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. This is actually one of those recipes that benefits from being made ahead. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day.
How do I keep the cauliflower from getting mushy?
The key is not overcooking it. You want the cauliflower just fork-tender, not soft. Steaming or boiling it briefly and then letting it cool completely before mixing it with the dressing helps keep the texture just right.
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh cauliflower gives the best texture. If you do use frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained extremely well. Any extra moisture can water down the dressing and make the salad less creamy.
What kind of bacon works best for this recipe?
Thick-cut bacon is ideal because it stays crisp and meaty even after being mixed into the salad. If you like extra crunch, reserve some bacon to sprinkle on top right before serving.
Is this cauliflower salad keto-friendly?
Yes, as long as your dressing ingredients are keto-approved. Most versions made with mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, and bacon fit well into a keto diet.
Can I lighten this recipe up a bit?
You can swap part of the mayonnaise for sour cream or Greek yogurt if that fits your diet. The flavor will still be creamy and tangy, just slightly lighter.
What other add-ins work well in this salad?
Chopped pickles, a little diced red onion, or even a spoonful of Dijon mustard in the dressing all work beautifully. You can customize it just like a traditional loaded potato salad.
How long does loaded cauliflower salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. Give it a quick stir before serving to freshen it up.
Can I serve this warm instead of cold?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, but some people love it slightly warm right after mixing. If serving warm, add the bacon at the end so it stays crisp.
Will non–low carb eaters enjoy this?
Yes, and that’s one of the best parts. This doesn’t taste like a compromise recipe. It tastes like comfort food, plain and simple.
You get all the outstanding flavor and deliciousness of loaded potato salad without all the guilt of the carbs!
Once you try this recipe, you wont be making it any other way!
This is one of my all time favorite dishes to make when I want something that tastes insanely delicious but is low carbs yet filling!
Wonderful for cook outs, pot lucks, get togethers, pool parties or any occasion where you want to impress!
Super easy to throw together and even keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days!
Stay tuned for many more Summer salads, drinks and awesome recipes for the hot months- coming soon!
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Loaded Cauliflower Salad
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sliced radishes
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions sliced
- 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- DRESSING
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons sweet relish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Cut the florets off of the thicker center stalk of the cauliflower.
- Chop the florets into bite sized pieces and transfer to a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
- Using your hands, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, salt and pepper.
- Bake 15-20 minutes or until tender crisp.
- Set aside to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, sweet relish, Dijon, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cauliflower, radishes, celery, cheese, green onions and bacon.
- Pour the dressing over the cauliflower mixture and toss to combine. Allow to chill for 2 hours before serving.
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Comments & Reviews
Mary Laska says
Very tasty and everyone liked it1
Barbara says
Servings?
Made this today. Very good!
KK says
I don’t cook the cauliflower…also add hard boiled eggs as I do in potato salad. A delicious version of a non-carby salad! Looks great.
Annette says
My whole family loved this salad!!! Doubling the recipe for another birthday party again tomorrow!!!
Jud Mcewan says
Sounds delicious!