Here’s the classic Seven-Layer Salad—a retro potluck favorite that’s crisp, creamy, and colorful 🥗✨
Seven-Layer Salad
Ingredients (serves 8–10)
- Iceberg lettuce – 1 large head, chopped
- Frozen peas – 1 cup, thawed
- Red onion – ½ cup, finely chopped
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Cooked bacon – 6–8 slices, crumbled
- Hard-boiled eggs – 4, chopped
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Layer the salad
- In a large clear glass bowl or trifle dish, layer ingredients in this order:
- Lettuce
- Peas
- Red onion
- Hard-boiled eggs
- In a large clear glass bowl or trifle dish, layer ingredients in this order:
- Add dressing
- Spread mayonnaise evenly over the top, sealing edges to prevent sogginess.
- Sprinkle sugar evenly over the mayo.
- Lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Finish layers
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle bacon crumbles on top.
- Chill
- Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Serve
- Toss just before serving or scoop straight down to keep layers intact.
Tips & Variations
- Very traditional: Use only iceberg lettuce and frozen peas (not fresh).
- Healthier twist: Swap half the mayo with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Extra crunch: Add sliced celery or bell peppers as a layer.
- Southern style: Add a thin layer of sliced cucumbers or tomatoes.
This salad is a staple at church suppers, holidays, and family reunions.
If you want, I can share a Southern-style version, low-carb version, or a single-serve mason jar version.