Cobb Salad Recipe

Name: Cobb Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 6 slices bacon; 3 eggs; 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded; 3 cups chopped, cooked chicken meat; 2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped; 0.75 cup blue cheese, crumbled; 3 green onions, chopped; 1 avocado - peeled, pitted and diced; 1 (8 ounce) bottle Ranch-style salad dressing

Cook Time: 10 minutes

This restaurant-worthy Cobb salad, packed with crunchy lettuce and deliciously filling toppings, is an easy recipe to prep and sure to be a hit at any table. Heres how to make this classic American dish thats perfect as a main course.

What Is a Cobb Salad?

A Cobb salad is a classic American dish made up of lettuce topped with bacon, chicken, boiled eggs, tomatoes, and other ingredients, all arranged in neat rows. The origins of the salad are somewhat unclear, but it is widely believed to have been created at the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood during the late 1930s.

Ingredients for Cobb Salad

6 slices of bacon
3 large eggs
1 head of iceberg lettuce, shredded
3 cups of cooked, chopped chicken
2 ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped
cup of crumbled blue cheese
3 green onions, chopped
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
1 (8-ounce) bottle of Ranch-style salad dressing

How to Make a Cobb Salad

Follow these easy steps for a perfect Cobb salad:

Boil, peel, and chop the eggs: Place eggs in a saucepan, covering them completely with cold water. Bring to a boil, then cover and remove from heat. Let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes, then cool, peel, and chop them.
Cook, drain, and crumble the bacon: While the eggs are cooking, place the bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until it turns evenly brown, about 7-10 minutes. Drain and crumble the bacon, setting it aside.
Assemble the salad: Divide the shredded iceberg lettuce among individual plates. Neatly arrange rows of bacon, boiled eggs, cooked chicken, chopped tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese, green onions, and diced avocado on top of the lettuce.
Drizzle with dressing: Finally, drizzle the salad with your preferred ranch dressing. Toss gently if you like, or leave the ingredients arranged in neat rows for a beautiful presentation.

Test Kitchen Tips

Here are some pro tips to make your Cobb salad even better:

Iceberg lettuce is cold and crunchy, which is a great texture contrast. For a more nutrient-dense option, mix it with romaine or another leafy green.
Instead of cooking your own chicken, you can use rotisserie chicken as a quick and easy shortcut.
To keep the avocado from browning, squeeze fresh lemon juice on it after dicing. Not only will it preserve the color, but it adds an extra layer of flavor!

Allrecipes Community Tips

"I love this salad," says Dawn Blais. "Sometimes I use peppercorn ranch or blue cheese dressing. Extra bacon is always a hit!"
"I used blue cheese dressing instead of ranch as a personal preference," says Jennifer Scherping. "I also used Bibb lettuce, and it made the salad both pretty and delicious!"
"So good," raves Allrecipes Allstar Kims Cooking Now. "I served it as a side dish with tilapia, but I might add some diced chicken to the leftovers for lunch tomorrow."

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Each serving of this hearty Cobb salad contains:

Calories: 525
Total Fat: 40g (51% DV)
Saturated Fat: 10g (50% DV)
Cholesterol: 179mg (60% DV)
Sodium: 915mg (40% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 10g (4% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 4g (15% DV)
Total Sugars: 5g
Protein: 32g (63% DV)
Vitamin C: 13mg (14% DV)
Calcium: 153mg (12% DV)
Iron: 2mg (12% DV)
Potassium: 720mg (15% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Cobb Salad Recipe

History of the Cobb Salad

The Cobb Salad is a renowned American dish, originating in Hollywood in the late 1930s. The most popular story traces its creation back to the Brown Derby restaurant, where owner Robert Cobb reportedly crafted the salad from leftover ingredients in the kitchen. Some say that Cobb, in a moment of inspiration, simply tossed together various ingredients like avocado, chicken, bacon, and blue cheese, creating a dish that would soon become a staple of American cuisine. While the exact origins remain debated, the Cobb Salad's distinct combination of ingredients quickly caught on, becoming a beloved dish not just in California, but throughout the U.S.

Regional Variations of the Cobb Salad

Though the basic ingredients of the Cobb Saladlettuce, bacon, chicken, eggs, blue cheese, and avocadoremain the same, regional variations abound. In the American South, for instance, you may find Cobb salads with a heavier emphasis on fried chicken rather than grilled or roasted chicken. In other parts of the U.S., restaurants might substitute different greens like arugula, romaine, or spinach for the traditional iceberg lettuce. Additionally, while blue cheese is a classic component, some variations use feta cheese or cheddar for a different flavor profile. A popular twist in coastal areas includes the addition of seafood, such as shrimp or crab, making the salad even more decadent.

How the Cobb Salad Differs from Similar Dishes

At first glance, the Cobb Salad might seem similar to other classic American salads like the Chefs Salad or the Waldorf Salad, but there are key differences. Unlike the Chefs Salad, which often includes a wide range of deli meats, the Cobb Salad sticks primarily to chicken and bacon as its protein sources. It also stands apart from the Waldorf Salad, which is more fruit-forward with ingredients like apples, walnuts, and grapes. The Cobb Salad is characterized by its bold, savory flavors, brought together by the richness of blue cheese and the satisfying crunch of bacon. This combination of savory, creamy, and fresh ingredients makes the Cobb Salad a unique dish that is both filling and flavorful.

Where Is the Cobb Salad Typically Served?

Although the Cobb Salad is popular across the United States, it is most famously associated with Hollywood, where it was first created. Today, it can be found in diners, restaurants, and upscale eateries around the country. The salad is especially popular in California, where its origins lie, and is often served as a main course due to its hearty ingredients. In fact, its rich combination of proteins and vegetables makes it a perfect dish for lunch or dinner. It's often enjoyed as a casual yet satisfying meal in restaurants or as a healthy, protein-packed option for those looking to stay full without indulging in heavier foods.

Interesting Facts About the Cobb Salad

The Cobb Salad is often praised for its versatility. While the original recipe is packed with chicken, bacon, eggs, and blue cheese, its easily customizable. Many people swap ingredients based on preferences, making it a great option for people with dietary restrictions or specific taste preferences.
Its rumored that the Cobb Salad was named after its creator, Robert Cobb, but the dish also may have been named after the Cobb family, early restaurateurs. Some stories suggest that the restaurants owner, Robert Cobb, named the salad after himself, while others believe the salad was a tribute to a fellow named Cobb who worked with him.
The Cobb Salad became a sensation so quickly that it was even featured in Hollywood films. It was not uncommon for movie stars to indulge in this hearty salad during lunch breaks, further cementing its place in Hollywood culture.
Though the Cobb Salads exact origin story may be uncertain, it is widely acknowledged that it was first served at the Brown Derby restaurant, a Hollywood landmark. Today, the Brown Derby no longer exists, but its culinary influence lives on through dishes like the Cobb Salad.

Whether served with the traditional ingredients or adapted to suit your personal tastes, the Cobb Salad is a dish that remains timeless. Its a celebration of American flavors and creativity, and its ability to evolve with regional preferences ensures that it will remain a beloved salad for years to come.

FAQ about Cobb Salad Recipe

Leftover Cobb Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It's best to store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

Yes, you can prepare the individual components of the salad ahead of time (like the chopped vegetables, boiled eggs, and cooked chicken), but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

If you don't like blue cheese, you can substitute it with crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.

Boiled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to peel them before storing if you're planning to use them quickly.

Yes, you can use other types of lettuce like romaine, butter lettuce, or spinach if you prefer. The choice of lettuce depends on your taste preferences, but iceberg lettuce adds the traditional crunch.

Absolutely! You can make your own ranch dressing using ingredients like mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and a mix of herbs. Many people enjoy customizing the flavor of their dressing.

Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits to save time. However, freshly cooked bacon adds a crispier texture and a more authentic flavor.

To make the salad even more filling, you can add extra protein like grilled shrimp, steak, or even roasted chickpeas. You can also increase the amount of avocado or add other vegetables like corn, cucumber, or bell peppers.

Yes, if you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can skip the chicken. You can replace it with additional vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

To prevent the avocado from browning, you can squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the diced avocado. The citric acid helps slow down the oxidation process.

Comments

LINDA MCLEAN

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Hmmm....Ranch dressing and iceberg? Now that's a first for me, including the reviewer who said that thousand island was the only way to go. However, who cares if it's not the "original" recipe; if it tastes good, eat it! I prefer a mixture of romaine and butter lettuce with a dressing consisting of red wine vinegar, olive oil (which I drizzle in slowly to emulsify) dijon mustard, chopped fresh chives and crumbled blue cheese. Any way you decide to make this salad with whatever dressing, it will always be a hit. Thanks so much Mr. Bill!

naples34102

11/27/2012 07:06:43 PM

I travel frequently and often have Cobb Salads when I do - on planes, in restaurants, hotels and even from grocery stores. I love a good Cobb Salad, but I never much paid attention to what I know is a classic list of ingredients. So glad to find this recipe here, and this is quite easily the best Cobb Salad I've ever had anywhere, probably because I controlled the ingredients, their quality and their freshness. I stuck to the ingredients as written as, again, I recognize them to be critical to an authentic Cobb Salad. I did, however, make my own Buttermilk Ranch Dressing. This was an ideal dinner to make for myself since Hubs is out of town and he would have never eaten this in a million years - well, not with the Blue cheese anyway. My tummy is happy. (Tip: Penzey's Spices makes a seasoning blend called "Buttermilk Dressing and Dip" which makes a quick but awesome ranch dressing! I don't even use buttermilk - just sour cream, mayo and half and half to desired thickness)

callmemochelle

05/15/2021 04:32:42 AM

Easier way to make bacon: Preheat oven to 400 - line baking sheet with parchment paper - add strips of bacon (thick cut world best) - bake for 20 to 22 minutes for crisp Carefully remove tray from oven. Transfer on paper towel and once cooled crumble it.

Sheryll Gent

01/14/2014 04:08:44 PM

This was delicious. I used a spring mix instead of iceberg (just don't like it) and a dressing of EVOO, white wine vinegar and Dijon mustard. Marinated chicken breasts in Italian dressing over night and grilled it on my Big Green Egg. Even hubby liked it and that's a big deal. Thanks for the recipe. Will do it again.

MaineChef

10/01/2012 04:12:50 PM

Excellent and satisfying dish. My husband loved it. I used grass fed bacon without additives so I could say it was a healthy dish. I've been reading lately that fat is actually good for us, in moderation of course. Unfortunately, I didn't have an avocado on hand. Used olives instead. This recipe would work for a "salad in a jar". Put the dressing of your choice in the bottom of a quart jar, then the tomatoes, then onion, then avocado. Sprinkle a little lemon juice over avocado to prevent browning. Add egg, then bacon and top it off with your choice of lettuce. Beautiful! And delicious & healthy too!

Cameron Lowery

07/15/2021 11:10:15 PM

Turned out really good substitute of the blue cheese for feta and served with sliced cherry tomatoes to

Meghan Horton Welford

08/27/2017 10:50:40 PM

Delicious. Made this almost entirely to instructions - but made a few alterations. 1) Marinated and grilled the chicken 2) Feta not Bleu Cheese 3) Spinach instead of iceberg

SZYQ1

03/07/2017 05:04:56 AM

I love cobb and chopped salads, but haven't had one in a long time! I didn't bother measuring the lettuce and just placed the amount I wanted on the bottom of the bowl. We placed the other ingredients in separate bowls and added however much we wanted on top of the lettuce. Subbed the blue cheese for feta (we both dislike blue). If you think about your favorite salad, the components (ingredients) are simple to come up with. This recipe provides the perfect fix for a cobb salad and is easily modified as is any other salad. Thanks for providing a good recipe for a cobb salad!

Carol Enoch Speary

03/29/2019 09:29:53 PM

This is a great recipe. I made it with 6 slices of bacon, 6 cups of lettuce (3 cups head lettuce and 3 cups baby romaine mix) and added a can of garbanzo beans. I prefer it with French dressing, but put out several choices. It was a big hit.

Kathy Kingseed

02/02/2018 01:56:54 AM

Great as written. To make it more like the cobb salad I had in Key West - add black beans and corn and shrimp, fish, steak or chicken. Also, use a variety of greens. Omit onion.

Tammy G

04/23/2007 04:38:04 PM

I love ordering Cobb Salad at restaurants but the fresh salad at home was even more fabulous. I put some boneless chicken breast in a garlic flavored italian dressing in the morning and threw them on the grill while chopping up all the other ingredients. This one is a bit time-consuming in the prep department but the finished product is well worth it. Tasty and a beautiful presentation with all the colors and textures!

SereneGouda3438

09/15/2025 01:18:57 PM

Very good.

SnazzyKelp5341

06/06/2025 08:33:16 PM

Great recipe and easy to follow.

JudeThree

05/27/2025 08:04:56 AM

I used Turkey bacon since I'm allergic to 'regular'. Also used romaine because iceberg makes me a bit nauseous, yes too much information! Also, I used bagged cooked seasoned chicken (4.00 at Walmart). so I avoided the waste of a rotissiere. nothing major, but some modifications

Timothy White

02/10/2025 02:04:26 AM

I didn’t think this would be my new favorite, but here we are.

DonWise Wise

10/28/2024 03:00:53 AM

No changes needed

Donna Young

07/14/2024 06:39:04 PM

I can’t believe I made this myself!

Sarah Sanchez

05/22/2024 05:24:01 PM

Even better than I hoped for.

Jessica Thompson

02/27/2024 04:35:30 PM

Can’t believe something this simple tastes that good.

Elizabeth Wright

01/29/2024 04:31:54 PM

This recipe = perfection.