PA Dutch Hot Bacon Dressing Recipe - Amish Heritage (2024)

Amish Hot Bacon Dressing

PA Dutch hot bacon dressing is a type of salad dressing crafted from a combination of bacon and its drippings, vinegar, sugar, and egg. It boasts a delectable sweet and sour taste complemented by the rich, savory essence of bacon.

The dressing is said to have originated in Amish/PA Dutch communities and is known for its delicious tangy flavor.

And when combined with a bowl of lettuce greens, the hot bacon dressing tends to cause the lettuce to wilt, resulting in a dish commonly referred to as wilted lettuce salad.

Bacon

So let's talk about bacon. I mean who doesn't love bacon? I guess vegetarians and folks who don't eat pork wouldn't like it. But I'd say the majority of Americans love bacon.

Bacon is an incredibly delicious food with a crispy texture and smoky, salty flavor making it a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in various dishes.

When cooked to perfection, bacon is irresistible and provides a satisfying umami flavor that leaves a lasting impression. Its rich aroma and savory taste create a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.

Whether used as a topping, garnish, or main ingredient, bacon adds depth and complexity to any meal. Making it a must-have in any food lover's kitchen.

Is Bacon Healthy?

Bacon is a high-calorie food that is also high in fat and sodium, which can have negative health implications if consumed excessively. However, bacon does provide protein and some essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and zinc.

As with any food, moderation is key. Eating bacon in moderation as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can be part of a healthy lifestyle. However, it is important to limit the intake and choose leaner cuts of bacon when possible to minimize negative health effects.

And we don't eat a lot of bacon, but I'm sure not going to feel guilty indulging in this Amish homemade bacon dressing once in a while. Especially when I'm consuming fresh greens along with it.

Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing

Spinach salad with warm bacon dressing is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations.

The dish consists of fresh spinach leaves, topped with a warm bacon dressing. And is often accompanied by other ingredients such as hard-boiled eggs, sliced red onions, mushrooms, croutons, etc.

Warm bacon dressing is poured over the spinach leaves, which wilt slightly from the warmth of the dressing. The result is a salad that is both crispy and tender, with a combination of savory and sweet flavors.

Spinach salad with warm bacon dressing is a perfect side dish for any meal. Or it can be served as a main course by adding grilled chicken or shrimp. This salad is not only delicious but it is also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any diet.

Dandelion Salad with Bacon Dressing

With the arrival of spring, you'll notice an abundance of dandelions popping up everywhere, their little yellow heads dotting the landscape. While often considered a pesky weed, dandelions are actually quite nutritious and can be put to good use.

A traditional way to savor dandelions is by preparing a dandelion salad. It's a dish that has been handed down from one generation to another in some families. For instance, my Amish grandmother used to make it every spring.

Dandelion salad can be made from the leaves of the dandelion plant, which are typically harvested when they are young and tender. Wash the leaves and then toss them with hard-boiled eggs, feta cheese, sliced red onions, etc.

And dress it with this delicious, sweet, and savory bacon dressing.

The rich, smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter taste of the dandelion greens, creating a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious.

Dandelion salad with bacon dressing is a popular dish in many regions, and it is often served as a side dish or as a light lunch.

More Ideas for Using Pennsylvania Dutch Bacon Dressing

PA Dutch hot bacon dressing is commonly used as a topping for salads, but it can also be used to add a savory touch to a variety of other dishes.

Whether you prefer it hot or cold, bacon dressing is a delicious and easy way to elevate more of your favorite dishes. And here are a few ideas:

1. Drizzle over roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus for added flavor.
2. Use as a dip for sweet potato fries or roasted potato wedges.
3. Spoon over a grilled chicken breast or pork chop for a delicious glaze.
4. Pour over a loaded baked potato for a savory twist.
5. Add to a sandwich or wrap for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Drizzle over steamed green beans or broccoli for a simple and tasty side dish.

There are so many ways to use this dressing. But creamy bacon dressing over a simple lettuce and spinach salad with hard-boiled eggs is still my favorite.

And quite honestly, whenever I have PA Dutch bacon dressing in the fridge, I eat salad for the dressing. 🙂 It's just so good!

So if you're trying to get your family to eat more salad greens, maybe you need to try serving homemade bacon dressing. It's hard to turn down a salad that's topped with this stuff.

Serve it Hot, Warm, or Cold

Earlier, I mentioned that this dressing is good when it's tossed with a salad while it's hot. But if you're not a fan of wilted lettuce, there's no need to worry. You can serve bacon dressing warm or cold, as it still tastes great either way.

Personally, I prefer it warm. And whenever I prepare a batch, I store it in a jar in the refrigerator. To use it, I take out the required amount and transfer it to a small ramekin. Then, I microwave it for a few seconds to warm it up before serving.

So you could try it in different ways to determine your preference.

More Amish Salad Recipes

Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad

Seven-Layer Lettuce Salad

Coleslaw Dressing

Macaroni Salad with Cooked Dressing

I hope you enjoy your homemade Amish hot bacon dressing! And I would love it if you left me a comment and star rating below.

PA Dutch Hot Bacon Dressing Recipe

PA Dutch hot bacon dressing is a tangy-sweet salad dressing made with bacon drippings, vinegar, sugar, and flour, served warm over greens or potatoes. And if preferred, it can also be served cold with your favorite lettuce salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 191kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.04gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 436mgPotassium: 66mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 40IUCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.3mg