Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

The Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese is a timeless dish celebrated for its perfect balance of crisp iceberg lettuce, bold blue cheese, smoky bacon, and rich dressing. This salad blends contrasting textures and vibrant flavors that turn a simple wedge into an unforgettable starter or side. Whether you’re craving a steakhouse favorite or simply want a fresh, satisfying salad experience, this recipe will prove why it remains a beloved choice on menus everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunch meets cream: The crisp iceberg lettuce pairs beautifully with creamy blue cheese dressing for incredible texture contrast.
• Bacon bliss: Smoky, crispy bacon bits add an irresistible savory crunch that elevates every bite.
• Bold yet balanced: The tangy blue cheese flavor perfectly complements the mild lettuce and sweet cherry tomatoes without overpowering.
• Simple elegance: Few ingredients, easy assembly, but stunning presentation make it a reliable crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile classic: It pairs well with a variety of main dishes yet shines spectacularly as a standalone appetizer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this salad is straightforward but essential, contributing unique textures, flavors, and colors that create this iconic dish’s signature appeal.

• Iceberg lettuce: The star of the salad, providing a cool, crunchy base perfect for holding dressing and toppings.
• Blue cheese: Choose a creamy, crumbly variety to provide that sharp, tangy punch classic to the recipe.
• Bacon: Cooked until crisp, these smoky pieces add both flavor depth and satisfying crunch.
• Cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of sweet acidity add bright color and freshness on the plate.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a slight bite and a pop of vibrant purple.
• Blue cheese dressing: Creamy and rich, this ties the ingredients together with its tangy, savory notes.
• Chives: Optional but perfect for a mild oniony garnish and elegant green accent.

Variations for Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tweak it to fit your dietary needs or ingredient availability, without losing its iconic character.

• Vegetarian option: Skip bacon and add toasted nuts or seasoned crispy chickpeas for crunch.
• Different cheeses: Swap blue cheese for gorgonzola or even feta for a milder tang.
• Dress it differently: Try a homemade ranch or a simple vinaigrette for a lighter alternative.
• Add avocado: Creamy avocado slices add richness and soften the tangy sharpness of blue cheese.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.

How to Make Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

Step 1: Prep the lettuce

Start by removing any wilted outer leaves from the iceberg head, then carefully cut it into four equal wedges, keeping the core intact to hold the wedge shape.

Step 2: Cook the bacon

Fry bacon slices over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, then drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.

Step 3: Slice and dice the garnishes

Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion for a fresh pop of color and flavor to complement the wedge.

Step 4: Assemble the salad

Place each iceberg wedge on a plate, drizzle generously with blue cheese dressing, then scatter blue cheese crumbles, bacon bits, tomatoes, and onions on top.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped chives or fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

• Fresh lettuce matters: Choose a firm, crisp iceberg with tight leaves to ensure the wedge holds together well.
• Blue cheese quality: Use a good-quality, flavorful blue cheese for the best taste — the dressing relies on it.
• Drain excess dressing: Don’t drown the wedge; add dressing gradually to maintain crispness without sogginess.
• Bacon timing: Cook bacon just before serving so it stays crunchy, not limp.
• Chill plates: Serve wedges on chilled dishes to keep the salad cool longer at the table.

How to Serve Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh chives or finely chopped parsley add a burst of color and a mild herbal lift that brightens every bite of the wedge.

Side Dishes

This wedge salad pairs beautifully with hearty steak, grilled chicken, or even a rich seafood entrée to balance out robust main courses.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving smaller wedge portions as appetizers, or stack multiple wedges for an eye-catching centerpiece that invites guests to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover wedges tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container, but keep dressing separate to prevent sogginess and enjoy within a day.

Freezing

Because of the lettuce’s crisp nature and fresh toppings, freezing is not recommended as it ruins texture and flavor.

Reheating

This salad is best served fresh and cold, so avoid reheating to maintain the signature crunch and freshness of the ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make the Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese vegan?

Absolutely! Replace blue cheese with a dairy-free alternative, use vegan bacon or toasted nuts for crunch, and swap the dressing for a plant-based version.

Is iceberg lettuce the only lettuce suitable for a wedge salad?

Iceberg is traditional and prized for its crunch and shape, but you can experiment with romaine or butter lettuce if you prefer a different texture.

How do I store blue cheese dressing if I make it ahead?

Keep blue cheese dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and stir well before serving.

Can I add other vegetables to this wedge salad?

Yes, adding ingredients like cucumbers, radishes, or avocado can offer extra freshness and flavor variations without losing the classic appeal.

What is the best way to crisp bacon for the salad?

For perfectly crispy bacon, cook it in a cold pan over medium heat, turning occasionally until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels.

Final Thoughts

If you love bold flavors, crisp textures, and simple elegance, the Classic Steakhouse Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese is a dish you should try immediately. It’s an easy yet impressive recipe that fits any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. Bring this classic to your table and watch it become an instant favorite!

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