Seven Layer Salad | Easy 7 Layer Salad Recipe

PUBLISHED July 1, 2025· MODIFIED June 30, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1211 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for a showstopping side dish for potlucks, summer cookouts, or holiday gatherings, this Seven Layer Salad is the answer. Crisp lettuce, colorful veggies, creamy dressing, and crunchy bacon create layers of flavor and texture in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Salad Recipe

Fast. You can make this tasty salad recipe in less than 30 minutes and a small amount of prep work.
Easy. Prep your ingredients, layer, and enjoy.
Low Carb. While this recipe isn’t exactly keto, it works well for a low carb lifestyle.
Versatile. Use your favorite ingredients to make a tasty dish the whole family will love.

People love Seven Layer Salad for its combination of fresh, crunchy, creamy, and savory layers that create a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish. Its beautiful presentation, make-ahead convenience, and nostalgic comfort make it a staple at gatherings and potlucks year after year.

What Does Seven Layer Salad Taste Like?

Seven layer salad combines classic ingredients layered beautifully in a glass bowl.

Crisp lettuce forms the base, topped with juicy tomatoes, peas, cheddar cheese, bacon, and a creamy sweet-savory dressing that ties it all together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Iceberg Lettuce– Acts as the crisp, refreshing base of the salad, providing structure and bulk while keeping it light and crunchy.
Cherry Tomatoes– Halved to add juicy sweetness and vibrant red color to the layers, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.
Frozen Peas– Thawed peas contribute a sweet crunch and a pop of bright green color, making the salad more visually appealing and adding freshness.
Red Onion– Thinly sliced for a mild sharpness and slight bite that balances the sweetness from peas and tomatoes.
Cheddar Cheese– Shredded cheese adds a rich, creamy, and savory element that ties together the vegetable layers with indulgent flavor.
Bacon– Cooked and crumbled bacon provides a smoky, salty crunch that elevates the salad and adds satisfying texture.
Mayonnaise Dressing– A blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, salt, and pepper creates the creamy, tangy topping that seals in the layers and delivers the signature taste of classic seven layer salad.

How To Make 7 Layer Salad

Prep Ingredients. Wash and chop lettuce, halve tomatoes, thaw peas, and slice onions.
Layer. In a clear glass trifle bowl or large salad bowl, layer in this order: lettuce, tomatoes, peas, onions, cheese, and bacon.
Make Dressing. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Top. Spread dressing evenly over the top layer to seal the salad. Sprinkle with additional cheese or bacon if desired.
Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Serve. Scoop down through all layers for the perfect balanced bite every time.

Tips and Tricks

Creating the perfect Seven Layer Salad is easy with a few simple tips to keep each layer fresh, crisp, and flavorful:

Plan Ahead. Sometimes there’s nothing better than a quick and easy recipe for nights you can’t bother to cook or a social function you forgot about making a dish for. Prep your bacon and eggs ahead of time for a salad recipe that is ready in a flash.
Absorb Excess Moisture. To prevent a soggy salad, make sure you take extra time to pat any extra moisture off of your lettuce, peas, onions, or any other veggie layer that may hold any excess water.
Don’t Skimp on the Dressing. This is everyone’s favorite part of the salad. It’s super simple to make, but it’s incredibly flavorful and takes this 7 Layer Salad to the next level.
Customize It. If you’re not a fan of any of these layers, don’t be afraid to substitute something else in it’s place. I know it’s called a seven layer salad, but there’s nothing to say it can’t be a five layer salad or even a nine layer salad depending on your preferences.

Variations

While the classic Seven Layer Salad is always a crowd-pleaser, try these delicious variations to suit your tastes and dietary preferences:

Protein Boost- Add diced hard-boiled eggs or grilled chicken for extra protein and heartiness.
Cheese Swap– Replace cheddar cheese with shredded Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or crumbled feta for a different flavor profile.
Different Greens– Use romaine, spinach, or a spring mix instead of iceberg lettuce for added nutrients and texture.
Vegetarian Version– Omit the bacon or replace it with crispy chickpeas or smoked almonds for a plant-based crunch.
Healthier Dressing– Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise and sour cream for a lighter, protein-rich dressing.

What To Serve With It

Seven-layer salad is one of my favorite dishes to take to potlucks or any other social gathering where I’m asked to bring a side dish. Not only is it absolutely delicious, but it also pairs well with almost any protein or main course.

These are some of my favorites to serve with this yummy side:

How Long Does It Last?

For best results, I would suggest enjoying this salad recipe within a day or two of making it.

While it may taste just as good as the day you made it longer than that, for a crisp, refreshing texture, you will want to enjoy it quickly. The moisture from all of the delicious layers can begin to release and create a less-than-desirable bite.

Other Tasty Salad Recipes

If you’re a fan of lighter meals or a tasty salad, check out some of these amazing recipes that are favorites among our readers:

Keto Broccoli Salad- An easy to make side dish that is even better as leftovers.
Big Mac Salad– A salad that is the perfect low carb substitute for your favorite takeout order.
Indian Carrot Salad– Authentic Indian spices mixed with a tasty blend of veggies.
Quinoa Salad– High in protein and easily made in the Instant Pot.
Antipasto Salad– One of our most popular dishes. It’s incredibly easy to make, filling, and full of all of your favorite salad toppings.

If you love this 7 Layer Salad as much as we do, make sure you share it with your friends on Facebook and Instagram. Don’t forget to Pin it so you can make it again soon!