This creamy garlic parmesan broccoli is a delicious side dish that brings lots of flavor to your table. With crispy bacon and a rich cheesy sauce, it’s hard to resist!
Let’s be real, everything is better with bacon, right? I love how easy this dish is to make. Just steam the broccoli, stir in the sauce, and enjoy a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star here for their tender-crisp texture. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli works too—just avoid overcooking it.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for a hearty crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even pancetta could work well, just adjust the cook time accordingly.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you want a lighter version, you could substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or a good-quality Asiago cheese for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. You could use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, but fresh really makes this dish shine.
How Can I Make Sure My Broccoli is Cooked Just Right?
Getting that perfect broccoli texture is a common challenge. You want it bright green and tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli for just 3-4 minutes. This keeps it vibrant and crunchy.
- Immediately transfer the broccoli to cold water after cooking. This stops the cooking process and preserves its color.
- When you mix it with the sauce, remember it will cook a bit more, so don’t worry about it being fully soft at this stage.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli with Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 6 slices bacon
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Time Needed:
This scrumptious dish will take you about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by placing the slices of bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain. Be sure to leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor!
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
While the bacon cooks, bring a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the broccoli florets and let them steam or blanch for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender but still bright green. After cooking, drain the broccoli and set it aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Let it come to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Broccoli and Bacon:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked broccoli and chopped bacon back into the skillet. Gently stir to coat the broccoli and bacon with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat!
6. Final Heat and Serve:
Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to heat through. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish that everyone will love!
Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! If using frozen broccoli, simply steam it according to the package directions and add it to the sauce. You might want to reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking the broccoli.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the broccoli and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat everything gently on the stove and combine just before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.