Creamy Broccoli Macaroni Salad for 6

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil.
2. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 1 minute less than the package directions for al dente.
3. During the last 60 seconds of pasta cooking, toss the broccoli florets directly into the boiling water to blanch them.
4. Drain immediately in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and the sugar is dissolved.
6. Transfer the cooled pasta and broccoli to a large mixing bowl.
7. Fold in the diced red onion, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar.
8. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until every crevice of the macaroni is coated.
9. Fold in the sunflower seeds last to maintain their crunch.
10. Chill for 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to fuse.