Ahhh yes—Seven-Layer Salad, the classic potluck legend 🥗
Crisp, creamy, salty, and a little sweet. Here’s the traditional version, plus tips so it stays perfect and not watery.
Classic Seven-Layer Salad
Ingredients (serves 6–8)
- Iceberg lettuce – 1 large head, chopped
- Frozen peas – 1½ cups, thawed and well drained
- Red onion – ½ small, finely diced
- Celery – ½ cup, finely chopped
- Mayonnaise – 1½–2 cups
- Cheddar cheese – 1½ cups, shredded
- Bacon – 6–8 slices, cooked and crumbled
Seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp sugar (traditional touch)
How to Layer (Order Matters!)
1️⃣ Lettuce – Press down gently; this creates a moisture barrier
2️⃣ Peas – Spread evenly
3️⃣ Onion
4️⃣ Celery
5️⃣ Mayonnaise – Spread carefully all the way to the edges to seal
6️⃣ Cheese
7️⃣ Bacon
👉 Sprinkle sugar lightly over the mayo layer if using.
Chill & Serve
- Cover tightly and refrigerate at least 4 hours, overnight is best.
- Toss just before serving—or scoop straight down for visible layers.
Tips for the Best Seven-Layer Salad
✔️ Dry everything really well (especially lettuce & peas)
✔️ Seal edges with mayo so veggies don’t weep
✔️ Use a clear glass bowl for that classic look
✔️ Iceberg works best—it stays crisp
Popular Variations
- Add sliced hard-boiled eggs
- Swap peas for corn
- Use ranch or sour cream + mayo combo
- Add diced ham for extra heartiness
This salad is perfect with fried chicken, BBQ, or holiday dinners.
Want a Southern-style version or a lighter modern twist?
