Transform your vegetable side dish into a creamy, indulgent treat with this Garlic Parmesan Broccoli & Bacon recipe. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy garlic sauce, and cheesy Parmesan creates a rich, flavorful dish that elevates simple broccoli florets into a hearty and satisfying accompaniment. Perfect for pairing with a variety of main courses, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces bacon, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1½ cups light cream (or use heavy cream for a richer sauce)
- 1½ teaspoons of cornstarch blended with 1 tablespoon of water (cornstarch mixture)
- 1 pound of broccoli florets (from 2-3 heads), with stems trimmed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ⅓ cup fresh shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a spacious skillet over medium heat, fry the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess fat.
- Prepare the Base:
- In the same skillet, discard excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Place the butter in the skillet and allow it to melt over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the light cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Broccoli:
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring to coat them with the creamy sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Incorporate Cheese and Bacon:
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt and blend into the sauce.
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix until evenly distributed.
- Season and Serve:
- Adjust the flavor by adding salt and pepper according to your preference. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan broccoli & bacon warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli & Bacon offers a delightful blend of rich, savory flavors and creamy textures that make vegetables truly irresistible. With the crispy bacon, velvety cheese sauce, and tender broccoli, this dish is perfect as a side for any meal or as a comforting standalone treat. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the burst of flavor in every bite!