This Seven Layer Salad is a classic Midwestern party favorite, and it’s great to make ahead. My mom’s recipe is quick, easy, and can be prepared the night before—there are plenty of versions out there, but I swear by the one I grew up with.
I like it so much I now include it in my everyday meals instead of just party menus. What makes Seven Layer Salad work is that it’s full of vegetables but still has plenty of flavor and substance to appeal to everyone.
It’s made with basic ingredients most people already have in their kitchen, and since everyone has their own version, you can easily swap out anything you’re missing with something else you have.
Now that I’m older, I realize how well Seven Layer Salad keeps in the fridge. If you keep the layers intact and scoop from the top, it stays just as fresh as when you first made it, and since it needs at least two hours to chill, it’s perfect to make ahead and add to your regular menu.
Now that I’m older, I realize how well Seven Layer Salad keeps in the fridge. If you keep the layers intact and scoop from the top, it stays just as fresh as when you first made it, and since it needs at least two hours to chill, it’s perfect to make ahead and add to your regular menu.
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seven layer salad recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Seven Layer Salad is a classic Midwestern party favorite, and it’s great to make ahead. My mom’s recipe is quick, easy, and can be prepared the night before—there are plenty of versions out there, but I swear by the one I grew up with.
Ingredients
- 1 head lettuce shredded
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 2–3 stalks celery sliced (about 1 cup)
- 12 ounces frozen peas thawed
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 pound bacon fried and crumbled
Instructions
- Start by spreading the lettuce evenly in a glass bowl, then add layers of red onion, celery, and peas.
- Next, spread mayonnaise over the celery and sprinkle a little sugar on top, then finish with cheddar cheese and bacon.
- Cover the bowl and chill it in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 281kcal
Keywords: bacon, salad