Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli and Onion
Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli heads. Cut them into small, bite-sized florets. You want them small enough to be easily eaten in one bite. Discard the thick, woody stems or save them for another use (like soup stock or broccoli slaw). Place the florets in a very large mixing bowl. Add the finely diced red onion to the bowl. Soaking the diced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it can help mellow its sharp bite if you prefer a milder onion flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook the bacon using your preferred method until it is very crispy. You can pan-fry it, bake it on a wire rack in the oven (our preferred method for even crispness and less mess), or use an air fryer. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Once cooled, crumble or chop it into small pieces.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate medium bowl or a large liquid measuring cup, prepare the dressing. Add the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk vigorously until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper and whisk again. Taste the dressing and adjust if necessary. You might prefer it a little sweeter or a little tangier.

Step 4: Combine the Salad Components
To the large bowl with the broccoli and red onion, add the shredded cheddar cheese, the crumbled bacon (reserve a couple of tablespoons for garnish), the roasted sunflower seeds, and the dried cranberries.

Step 5: Dress and Toss
Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients in the bowl. Use a large spatula to gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, but ensure every floret has a light coating of the delicious dressing.

Step 6: Chill for Ultimate Flavor
This step is crucial and should not be skipped! Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the broccoli to soften just slightly and marinate in the dressing, and it gives all the distinct flavors a chance to meld together beautifully. Overnight is even better if you have the time.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, give the salad one last gentle stir. Transfer it to your serving dish and garnish with the reserved crumbled bacon and an extra sprinkle of sunflower seeds for a fresh crunch on top.