This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon & Cheese is the ultimate fresh-meets-savory combo. Crisp cucumbers are tossed in a cool, herby dressing, then topped with smoky bacon and sharp cheddar cheese for a mouthwatering flavor explosion in every bite. It’s the perfect quick side dish, snack, or summer salad—and it comes together in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re prepping for a potluck, BBQ, or weekday dinner, this easy cucumber recipe is a total crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep.
- Fresh & crunchy – Crisp cucumber slices stay cool and satisfying.
- Creamy & savory – The sour cream dressing, cheddar, and bacon add richness.
- Perfect for any meal – Great as a side, snack, or light lunch.
- Beginner-friendly – Simple ingredients and no special equipment required.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cucumbers – 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced; English or Persian work great.
- Cheddar Cheese – Shredded for a punch of flavor; sharp cheddar works best.
- Bacon Bits – Use store-bought or crumble 4 slices of cooked bacon.
- Sour Cream – The creamy base; Greek yogurt works as a lighter alternative.
- Fresh Dill – Adds herby brightness; use dried if fresh isn’t available.
- White Wine Vinegar – Adds a tangy kick; substitute with lemon juice.
- Garlic Powder – Brings mellow garlic flavor without raw garlic bite.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste for perfect balance.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
- Prep the cucumbers: Thinly slice the cucumbers using a knife or mandoline. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Make the creamy dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, vinegar, garlic powder, dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Toss the salad: Add the drained cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat evenly in the dressing.
- Add cheese and bacon: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and bacon bits over the top. Mix gently or leave layered for presentation.
- Chill & serve: Refrigerate for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld, then serve cold.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin, even cucumber slices.
- Salt and drain the cucumbers to avoid a watery salad.
- Fresh dill adds the best flavor, but dried works in a pinch—use 1 tsp dried for every tbsp fresh.
- Letting the salad chill enhances flavor and texture.
- For extra richness, add a tablespoon of mayo to the dressing.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free sour cream and skip the cheese or use a vegan version.
- Low-carb: This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.
- No bacon: Omit or replace with turkey bacon or plant-based bacon bits.
- Different cheese: Try crumbled feta, mozzarella pearls, or pepper jack for a twist.
- Extra crunch: Add sliced radishes or red onion for bite and color.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect with grilled meats like steak, chicken, or sausages.
- Serve alongside burgers or hot dogs at your next BBQ.
- Pair with sandwiches, wraps, or sliders for a quick lunch.
- Great as a stand-alone snack or light summer lunch.
Storage, Freezing, & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Best served fresh: The cucumbers will release water over time, so it’s best enjoyed the same day.
- Not freezer-friendly: This salad does not freeze well due to the high water content in cucumbers and the dairy-based dressing.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the cucumbers and dressing separately. Toss everything together right before serving for the best texture.
Do I have to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling is optional. If using English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers with thin skin, there’s no need to peel them.
Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely. Plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute and makes the salad a bit lighter and higher in protein.
What’s the best cucumber to use?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, making them perfect for salads.
Closing Thoughts + Call to Action
This Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon & Cheese is light, flavorful, and packed with texture—making it the perfect side for any occasion. It’s easy enough for beginner cooks yet tasty enough to wow your guests. If you loved this recipe, leave a review below and share it on Pinterest or your favorite social media platform. Looking for more easy summer sides? Don’t miss our Taco Pasta Salad or Grinder Salad recipes!