This pan-fried garlic bacon broccoli is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make! The crunchy broccoli pairs perfectly with crispy bits of bacon and aromatic garlic.
Honestly, anything with bacon is a winner in my book! I love serving this with dinner or even grabbing a bite as a snack. It’s hard to stop eating once you start! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for this dish. You can use frozen broccoli too; just thaw and drain it before cooking. The texture will be different, but still delicious!
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for its crispiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta works well too. Smoky flavor lovers might enjoy using smoked bacon!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a ton of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon), but fresh really shines in this recipe!
Onion: Adding onion gives a nice depth of flavor. If you want to skip it, no problem! You could also try red onion for a sweeter taste.
Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a nice kick, but feel free to leave this out if you prefer it mild!
How Do I Get the Broccoli to Be Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking broccoli perfectly is all about timing! You want it tender but still bright green and slightly crunchy. Here’s how:
- Start by sautéing the bacon until fully crispy and then set it aside.
- If you’re adding onions, cook them until they’re soft, then quickly add garlic to prevent burning.
- Add the broccoli and toss to coat it well with the fat and garlic. Stir it occasionally!
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes on medium heat. If you cover the pan for the first couple of minutes, it helps steam the broccoli, making it tender faster—then uncover to get that nice browning!
With these tips, your broccoli will be vibrant and full of flavor every time! Enjoy your meal! 😊
How to Make Pan-Fried Garlic Bacon Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon drippings (from cooking bacon)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook! With just a few minutes of prep and a quick fry, you’ll have a tasty, healthy side ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or fancy dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by rinsing the broccoli and cutting it into bite-sized florets. If you want a milder flavor, you can also peel and chop the stalks. Set the broccoli aside for now.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat. Let it sizzle for about 5-7 minutes until it’s crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to lift the bacon out and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Make sure to leave all that delicious bacon fat in the pan – it’ll add great flavor!
3. Add Oil & Onion:
If there isn’t enough bacon fat in the pan to equal about 2 tablespoons, drizzle a bit of olive oil. Now, toss in the chopped onion (if using) and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it turns translucent. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to your dish!
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Next, add in the minced garlic. Cook for around 30 seconds to 1 minute, while stirring to make sure it doesn’t burn. You want it fragrant and flavorful!
5. Cook the Broccoli:
Now it’s time for the star of the dish—add the broccoli florets to the pan! Toss everything together, ensuring the broccoli is well-coated in the garlic and fat. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 6-8 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet still crisp and has nice browned spots.
6. Combine & Serve:
Once the broccoli is cooked, return the crispy bacon to the pan. Mix everything thoroughly to combine. If you want a zesty touch, drizzle with lemon juice at the end and give it one last toss.
7. Enjoy!
Serve warm as a delightful, crunchy side dish. This Pan-Fried Garlic Bacon Broccoli is not only tasty but also a great way to add veggies to your meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap in other vegetables like green beans or Brussels sprouts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed—greens should be tender yet crisp.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
If you want a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil for cooking. You can add some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, and perhaps some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth!
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the bacon, garlic, and broccoli in advance! Cook everything on the day you plan to serve to keep the broccoli fresh and crisp. If you make it ahead, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat on the stove.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to maintain the broccoli’s crunch! You can add a splash of olive oil if needed.