The aroma of creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon wafts through the air, teasing your senses and bringing a smile to your face. Imagine tender broccoli florets enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor, punctuated by crispy bits of bacon that add a delightful crunch. Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce Creamy Garlic Mushroom Stuffed Shells. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience, a moment of joy that transforms ordinary dinners into memorable feasts. Picture yourself at a cozy family gathering where everyone savors each bite, laughter filling the air as you share stories around the table. Baked Feta Potatoes Trust me; this creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile is rich and savory, delighting even the pickiest eaters
- Its vibrant green color paired with golden bacon makes it an eye-catching dish for any occasion
- Versatile enough to be served as a side or main dish, it’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings
I still remember the first time I made this dish. My friends were practically fighting over the last serving—who knew broccoli could steal the show?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green florets without yellowing for optimal freshness and flavor.
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Heavy Cream: This gives your sauce its creamy texture; opt for full-fat for best results.
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Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan for robust flavor; pre-grated can work but lacks depth.
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Bacon: Crispy bacon adds that irresistible crunch; choose thick-cut for extra chewiness and flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential—powder just won’t cut it in this aromatic dish.
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Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings elevate flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by washing the broccoli under cool water. Cut into bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking later on.
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon from skillet and let it drain on paper towels while keeping some fat in the pan.
Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: In the same skillet with leftover bacon fat, add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—and then toss in the broccoli florets. Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet Cook until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over broccoli. Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens—this is where your kitchen starts smelling heavenly.
Combine Everything: Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined—every bite should have that creamy goodness!
Serve It Up!: Transfer your creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with additional parmesan if you’re feeling fancy—enjoy every delicious mouthful! For more inspiration, check out this BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Bowls recipe.
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon not only satisfies cravings but also elevates your veggies game
- The rich, garlicky aroma fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist
- Plus, the crispy bacon adds a pop of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then sauté the garlic in the drippings before adding broccoli. This sequence maximizes flavor and ensures even cooking for that creamy finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap broccoli for cauliflower or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. Experimenting with different cheeses can also yield unique flavors!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh broccoli for better texture and taste; frozen may become mushy
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it allows flavors to meld beautifully
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure perfection every time!
Cooking this creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone raced to snag the last serving. Those moments make every dish unforgettable.
FAQ
Can I make creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
Try turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option without sacrificing flavor.
How do I know when my broccoli is perfectly cooked?
Broccoli should be bright green and tender yet still crisp; avoid mushiness!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli with Bacon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy garlic parmesan broccoli with bacon is a delightful dish that elevates your vegetable game. Tender broccoli florets are enveloped in a rich, savory sauce made with heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan, while crispy bacon adds an irresistible crunch. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, turning ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this mouthwatering side that guarantees seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the broccoli and cut it into bite-sized florets.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels, leaving some fat in the pan.
- Sauté minced garlic in the residual bacon fat for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli and cook until bright green and slightly tender.
- Pour in heavy cream and add parmesan cheese; stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens.
- Return crispy bacon to the skillet and mix everything thoroughly with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
