Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon & Cheddar - Potluck Ready!

Ingredients

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, (cut into ½-in (2.5-cm) pieces)
• ⅓ cup red onion, diced, (from one onion)
• 1 cup mayonnaise, (best quality such as Hellmann's or Duke's)
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons honey or sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 9 cups broccoli florets, (cut into small, bite-sized pieces (you'll need about 2 pounds/908 g of broccoli crowns))
• 1 cup (lightly packed) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, (best quality)
• ½ cup sliced almonds