Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli with Bacon
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli with Bacon is the ultimate side dish! Tender broccoli is coated in a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce and topped with crispy bacon for the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors. This quick and easy recipe is great for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or even a keto-friendly treat. Try it today and bring big flavor to your table!
Calories: 280kcal
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Want a lighter version? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk!
Instructions
- Steam or Boil the Broccoli:
- Cook broccoli in boiling water or steam until tender but still slightly firm, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon slices until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whisk in parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Coat the Broccoli in Sauce:
- Add cooked broccoli to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Add the Bacon & Serve:
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with crumbled bacon, and serve immediately!
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Frozen works too but may be softer.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli! It should be tender but not mushy.
- Want extra cheesiness? Add a handful of shredded mozzarella for an even creamier sauce.
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add toasted nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for a crunchy contrast.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.