Recipe Overview
This is not your average cucumber salad. It’s creamy, salty, tangy, and completely addictive — hence the “crack” nickname. Loaded with ranch, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh cucumber slices, it’s a perfect quick side dish or summer potluck hit.
Quick Snapshot
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: Optional 15 minutes
Total Time: 10–25 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Meal Type: Side, Snack, Picnic, BBQ
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
2–3 cups cucumber, thinly sliced (about 2 large cucumbers or 4 small Persian cucumbers)
1/2 cup ranch dressing (use your favorite or homemade)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked crispy bacon, chopped
2 tbsp fresh chopped chives or green onions
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
1/4 tsp garlic powder or onion powder
1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
Crushed red pepper flakes for a kick
Crushed sunflower seeds for texture
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cucumbers
Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds (you can peel them or leave the skin on for crunch).
If using regular cucumbers, you may want to scoop out seeds.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine the ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, and chopped chives.
Add garlic powder or sour cream if desired. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Toss It All Together
Add cucumbers and bacon to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Chill (Optional)
For extra flavor, refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before serving to let everything meld together.
Storage Info
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Note: salad will become slightly more watery the longer it sits due to cucumbers.
Nutrition Info (per 1 cup serving – approx.)
Nutrient Amount (approx.)
Calories 160–180 kcal
Protein 7–9g
Carbs 4–6g
Fat 13–15g
Fiber 1g
Sugar 2–3g
Varies depending on the brand of ranch and cheese used
Variations
Cheesy Upgrades
Use sharp white cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for extra depth
Mix in a spoonful of cream cheese for a thicker base
Protein Boost
Add diced grilled chicken or rotisserie turkey
Toss in boiled eggs or chopped turkey bacon for a low-fat twist
Crunchy Additions
Add chopped celery, radishes, or sunflower seeds
Try romaine lettuce or spinach for volume
Pro Tips
Salt cucumbers beforehand: Sprinkle cucumbers with a little salt and let sit for 10 mins. Then pat dry. This prevents a watery salad.
Use Greek yogurt ranch for a lighter protein-rich version.
Make it spicy with jalapeños or buffalo ranch!
