While flipping through an old cookbook, I stumbled upon a classic that instantly brought me back to summer gatherings and family barbecues—the wedge salad. This Loaded Wedge Salad takes that nostalgic recipe and jazzes it up with a modern twist, featuring a creamy buttermilk ranch dressing that’s simply irresistible. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for those who crave a fresh, satisfying dish without sacrificing flavor. With its vibrant mix of crunchy iceberg lettuce, crispy bacon, and delightful toppings, this salad not only looks beautiful on the table but also makes for a quick prep option that’s ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into the details of creating this delicious Loaded Wedge Salad!

Why is Loaded Wedge Salad a Must-Try?

Crowd-Pleasing: This Loaded Wedge Salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Perfect for gatherings, it impresses guests with its vibrant colors and flavors.

Effortless Preparation: With a quick assembly process, you can whip this beauty up in no time, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute invites.

Rich, Creamy Dressing: The homemade buttermilk ranch dressing is a game-changer that elevates the classic flavor profile while staying true to its roots.

Versatile Toppings: Feel free to mix and match with your favorite toppings, like crispy bacon and cherry tomatoes, or add a twist with blue cheese or avocado, ensuring there’s a delightful surprise in every bite.

Texture Excellence: Each crunchy wedge of iceberg is contrasted by crispy breadcrumbs, tender bacon, creamy eggs, and a dollop of ranch dressing — a delightful mix that keeps every bite interesting.

If you’re looking for even more salad inspiration, be sure to check out our delicious Garden Harvest Salad or the refreshing Cabbage Apple Salad.

Loaded Wedge Salad Ingredients

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base; you can substitute part of this with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Buttermilk – Adds tanginess; essential for the flavor depth of the dressing.
• Champagne Vinegar – Enhances the dressing’s taste; white wine vinegar works well, too.
• Sugar – Balances the dressing’s acidity; adjust based on taste preferences.
• Chives – Provides a mild onion flavor; fresh is ideal for optimal flavor.
• Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dressing; can be replaced with dill for a different profile.
• Dill – Adds a fresh, herby note; feel free to use dried if fresh isn’t available.
• Garlic Powder – Packs in flavor without the pungency of fresh garlic; complements well.
• Onion Powder – Enhances the dressy complex flavors; it’s a must in ranch dressing.
• Hot Sauce – Adds a little heat; adjust to your spice preference.

For the Salad
• Iceberg Lettuce – The star of the dish, offering crunch; ensure it’s fresh and crisp.
• Bacon – For that savory, crispy punch; cook until golden and crumble over the top.
• Hard Boiled Eggs – Deliver creaminess and protein; use two, diced for even distribution.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Bright and juicy; if unavailable, substitute with diced regular tomatoes.
• Red Onion – Provides a punch of flavor; soaking it in vinegar mellows its intensity.
• Crispy Lemon Breadcrumbs – Adds an unexpected crunch; panko can be subbed if needed.
• Chives – For garnish and flavor; fresh ones elevate your dish beautifully.
• Butter – Essential for the crispy breadcrumbs; use salted for flavor enhancement.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re on your way to crafting a Loaded Wedge Salad that will impress everyone at the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Loaded Wedge Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, champagne vinegar, sugar, chives, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce until smooth and creamy. Once well-combined, cover and refrigerate the dressing for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your Loaded Wedge Salad has a deliciously rich dressing.

Step 2: Soak the Onions
While the dressing chills, prepare your red onions. In a small bowl, combine diced onions with cold water and a splash of vinegar, then let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This process will mellow the onion’s sharpness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your Loaded Wedge Salad. After soaking, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Lettuce
Take a fresh head of iceberg lettuce and carefully remove the outer leaves. Cut the lettuce into 4 to 6 equal wedges, making sure each piece retains its shape for a beautiful presentation. Rinse the wedges under cold water to remove any dirt and gently pat them dry with a paper towel, ensuring they are crisp and ready for assembly.

Step 4: Make the Breadcrumbs
In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring frequently until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Once toasted, remove from heat, mix in the lemon zest, and allow them to cool slightly. These crunchy breadcrumbs will add an exciting texture to your Loaded Wedge Salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad
On a large serving platter, artfully arrange the lettuce wedges, creating an attractive display. Drizzle generous amounts of the creamy buttermilk ranch dressing over each wedge. Top with crispy bacon, diced hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, soaked red onions, and the crispy lemon breadcrumbs. Finally, sprinkle fresh chives on top for a finishing touch and serve immediately to enjoy the delightful flavors of your Loaded Wedge Salad.

How to Store and Freeze Loaded Wedge Salad

Fridge: Keep any leftover Loaded Wedge Salad components separate in airtight containers; they can last up to 4 days. This helps maintain the crunch of the lettuce and freshness of the toppings.

Dressing: Store the buttermilk ranch dressing in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake before reusing to restore its creamy texture.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the Loaded Wedge Salad due to textures of the lettuce and toppings, which may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating: If you’ve made crispy breadcrumbs in advance, reheat them briefly in a skillet for added crunch before topping your salad again.

Expert Tips for Loaded Wedge Salad

• Chill Longer: For a richer flavor in your dressing, allow it to chill longer than 2 hours—overnight is ideal!

• Onion Soaking: Soak your red onions adequately to tame their sharpness; too little soaking can leave an overwhelming flavor.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh iceberg lettuce, ensuring it’s crispy and intact; wilted leaves can spoil the salad’s crunch.

• Breadcrumb Timing: Make the crispy lemon breadcrumbs just before serving for maximum crunchiness—no one likes soggy toppings!

• Topping Variety: Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings—additions like avocado or roasted nuts can elevate your Loaded Wedge Salad.

• Presentation Matters: Arrange your salad wedges artfully on the platter; a beautiful presentation enhances the dining experience!

What to Serve with Loaded Wedge Salad

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairs that complement this hearty, refreshing salad beautifully.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky chicken adds protein and heartiness, balancing the crispness of the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings warmth and depth, creating a lovely contrast in texture.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch that will have everyone reaching for more.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides an additional crunch and refreshing creaminess that pairs seamlessly with the dressing.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the vibrancy of the salad while complementing the creamy dressing perfectly.
Fresh Fruit Medley: Lightens the meal with sweet and juicy fruits, offering a refreshing contrast to the savory salad.
Potato Wedges: Crispy, salty wedges add a heartiness that makes for a satisfying meal, perfect for family gatherings.
Mini Quiches: A platter of mini quiches adds a savory touch, ensuring there’s an element of warmth for every bite.

Feel free to mix and match these options to create a perfectly balanced feast alongside your Loaded Wedge Salad!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Loaded Wedge Salad ahead of time is a fantastic way to save valuable minutes during busy weeknights or for entertaining guests. You can make the buttermilk ranch dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator — just make sure to give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors. Additionally, you can wash and cut the iceberg lettuce into wedges and refrigerate them, wrapped in paper towels, for up to 24 hours to maintain crispness. The bacon can be cooked and crumbled a day ahead as well. When it’s time to serve, simply assemble the salad by layering the lettuce and toppings, drizzling with dressing, and enjoy the same delectable taste with less fuss!

Loaded Wedge Salad Variations

Feel free to experiment and make this Loaded Wedge Salad your own, adding flavors and textures that tantalize your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Swap the buttermilk ranch dressing for a plant-based version by using almond milk and vegan mayo. It keeps all the creaminess while catering to dairy-free diets.
Avocado Bliss: Top your wedge salad with diced avocado for a rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the crunch of iceberg lettuce. The creaminess adds a delightful contrast to the classic ingredients.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. This provides a nice contrast to the fresh toppings and transforms your salad into a spicy sensation.
Nutty Boost: Sprinkle roasted nuts like almonds or pecans for an added crunch and nuttiness. This not only provides an extra layer of texture but also enhances the overall flavor profile of your salad.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked bacon or even smoked paprika in the dressing for a deeper, more complex flavor. The smokiness elevates the salad from classic to gourmet.
Gourmet Touch: Crumble some blue cheese or feta cheese on top for a tangy twist. The bold flavors of the cheese complement the creamy dressing perfectly, making every bite an indulgent experience.
Herb-Infused Dressing: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into your ranch dressing for a fragrant upgrade. The fresh herbs give the salad a vibrant, garden-fresh taste.
Crunch Cucumber Addition: For a refreshing bite, add thinly sliced cucumbers to your salad. Their crispness works wonderfully with the other textures and keeps the salad light.

If you’re in the mood for more salad ideas, consider trying our delicious Crunch Cucumber Salad for a refreshing twist or the zesty Cucumber Carrot Salad bursting with flavors!

Loaded Wedge Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of iceberg lettuce should I use?
Absolutely! Use fresh, intact heads of iceberg lettuce for the best crunch. Look for heads that are firm, vibrant green, and free from any signs of brown or wilted leaves. This not only ensures a crisp texture but also enhances the visual appeal of your Loaded Wedge Salad.

How long can I store the components of the Loaded Wedge Salad?
To keep things fresh, store the salad components separately in airtight containers. The lettuce can last up to 4 days in the fridge, while the buttermilk ranch dressing can be kept in a sealed container for up to a week. This method helps maintain the individual textures and flavors of each ingredient.

Can I freeze the Loaded Wedge Salad?
It’s best not to freeze your Loaded Wedge Salad. Freezing can alter the crispness of the lettuce and toppings, making them mushy when thawed. If you want to make ahead, consider storing the dressing and toppings separately and assemble the salad fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I prevent my red onions from being too strong?
To mellow the sharp flavor of the red onions, soak them in cold water with a splash of vinegar for at least 30 minutes. This simple step softens their bite and enhances the overall flavor of your Loaded Wedge Salad, making each bite more enjoyable.

What are some great toppings for my Loaded Wedge Salad?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Beyond the classic bacon and hard-boiled eggs, you can add diced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, or even roasted nuts for a delightful twist. The more the merrier! Each addition brings a different flavor and texture, making your salad special every time.