Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Crispy bacon elevates this creamy garlic parmesan broccoli recipe to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Fresh broccoli florets mingle with smoky bacon bits in a luxurious sauce that screams comfort food.

The combination of sharp parmesan and mellow garlic creates a flavor profile that dances on your taste buds.

creamy and indulgent, this dish brings restaurant-quality taste right to your dinner table.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of crisp vegetables and rich, savory notes.

The easy preparation means you can whip up this crowd-pleasing side dish in minutes.

Prepare to be amazed by how a few simple ingredients can transform an ordinary vegetable into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Best Ways to Store Creamy Broccoli Bacon

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth and maintain texture.
• Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for maximum 1-2 months. Avoid freezing dishes with cream-based sauces, as they may separate upon thawing.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute warmth evenly. Stop when temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw and drain it completely before cooking to prevent excess water. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning and sauce consistency.

• What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and might not thicken as well. For a similar consistency, add a bit more cornstarch slurry.

• Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Reduce bacon amount, use turkey bacon, replace some cream with chicken broth, or use low-fat cheese. You can also increase broccoli quantity for more nutrients and fewer calories.

What Makes Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon So Tasty

• This recipe transforms ordinary broccoli into a mouthwatering dish with minimal effort.
• Bacon, cream, and cheese blend seamlessly to create a decadent side dish that feels like a restaurant-quality experience.
• Minimize kitchen cleanup by using a single skillet for cooking, making this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal dish washing.
• Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting cheese types, adding different herbs, or swapping bacon for another protein to suit personal taste preferences.

Broccoli Bacon Bake: Ingredients for Creamy Goodness

• Broccoli Florets: Fresh green vegetable that provides a nutritious base for the dish.
• Bacon: Crispy meat that adds a smoky and savory flavor to the recipe.
• Heavy Cream: Rich dairy product that creates a smooth and creamy sauce.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheeses that provide a rich, tangy flavor and golden brown topping.

• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that build a deep and flavorful foundation for the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the recipe.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
• Cornstarch: Thickening agent that helps create a smooth and consistent sauce.

• Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary: Fresh herbs that can add a bright and fragrant finishing touch.

Tools for a Perfect Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake

• Large oven-safe skillet: Essential for cooking bacon, onions, and broccoli in one pan.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing crispy bacon without excess grease.
• Paper towel-lined plate: Helps drain bacon and absorb extra oil.
• Measuring spoons: Needed for precise seasoning and butter amounts.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients and scraping pan.
• Cutting board: Used for chopping bacon, onions, garlic, and herbs.
• Sharp knife: Required for precise ingredient preparation.
• Broiler: Used for melting and browning cheese on top of the dish.

How to Make Broccoli Bacon with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Fire Up The Broiler

Set your broiler to medium heat, preparing it for the delicious transformation ahead.

Step 2: Sizzle The Bacon

In a large oven-safe skillet, fry the chopped bacon until it turns perfectly crispy.

Transfer the golden pieces to a paper towel-lined plate using a slotted spoon to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Manage Bacon Drippings

Carefully drain most of the bacon fat, keeping just a thin layer in the pan for an extra flavor boost.

Step 4: Soften The Onions

Melt butter in the same skillet and add diced onions.

Cook until they become translucent and soft, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bacon.

Step 5: Introduce Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets and season with salt and pepper.

Cook while stirring, watching the broccoli turn a vibrant green (about 3 minutes).

Step 6: Awaken The Garlic

Sprinkle in chopped garlic and stir quickly, letting its aromatic essence infuse the vegetables for about 30 seconds.

Step 7: Create The Creamy Sauce

Pour in the cream, lower the heat, and let the mixture simmer.

Stir occasionally until the sauce reaches a luxurious thickness.

If needed, add a cornstarch slurry to help it thicken.

Step 8: Bring It All Together

Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, mixing everything to marry the flavors.

• Shredded mozzarella
• Grated parmesan cheese

Step 9: Broil To Perfection

Slide the skillet under the broiler, watching carefully as the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 10: Final Flourish

Give a final sprinkle of black pepper.

Pro Tips for Rich, Savory Broccoli Bacon

• Cook bacon slowly over medium-low heat to ensure maximum crunchiness and even rendering of fat.
• Simmer cream gently and stir frequently to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, silky sauce texture.
• Cook broccoli just until bright green to maintain its crisp-tender quality and prevent mushiness.
• Watch broiler carefully to achieve golden, bubbly cheese without burning the top of the dish.
• Use bacon fat sparingly to add depth without overwhelming the delicate cream and vegetable flavors.

Tasty Ways to Mix Up Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon

• Vegan Veggie Delight: Replace bacon with crispy tempeh strips, swap heavy cream for coconut milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a plant-based version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute broccoli with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content, keeping the creamy garlic sauce and bacon for keto dieters.
• Dairy-Free Herb Fusion: Use almond milk cream, omit cheese, add extra herbs like basil and oregano, and replace bacon with turkey bacon or smoked tofu for those avoiding dairy.
• Mediterranean Greens Remix: Swap broccoli for broccolini, add sun-dried tomatoes, use feta cheese instead of parmesan, and sprinkle with pine nuts for a Mediterranean-inspired alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Bacon Dishes

• Hearty Dinner Companion: Pair this creamy broccoli dish with grilled chicken breast or roasted pork tenderloin for a complete, satisfying meal that balances protein and vegetables.
• Carb Boost Option: Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or buttered egg noodles to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and add extra texture to your plate.
• Appetizer Transformation: Convert this recipe into bite-sized appetizers by using smaller broccoli florets and serving in mini cast-iron skillets or as stuffed mushroom caps for elegant party snacks.
• Quick Lunch Solution: Pack leftovers in a sealed container for a delicious next-day lunch, reheating gently to maintain the creamy texture and crispy bacon bits.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon Recipe

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4.8 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent garlic parmesan broccoli bacon recipe blends rich flavors into a mouthwatering side dish. Crisp bacon, tender broccoli, and creamy parmesan create a hearty companion that satisfies hungry diners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) bacon, roughly chopped
• 1 pound (454 grams) broccoli florets

Dairy and Cream Components:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter
• 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) light cream
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) shredded mozzarella
• 1/3 cup (35 grams) parmesan cheese, fresh shredded or grated

Seasoning and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (cornstarch slurry)
• 1 pinch salt, to season
• 1 pinch pepper, to season

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Instructions

1. Position the oven rack 6 inches from the broiler and set to medium-high heat, preparing for the final stage of cooking.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, render the bacon over medium heat until crisp and golden. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the rendered fat.
3. Retain approximately 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet, discarding excess grease for optimal flavor concentration.
4. Melt butter in the same skillet, introducing diced onions and sautéing until translucent and fragrant, approximately 2 minutes.
5. Introduce broccoli florets to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetable brightens and becomes slightly tender.
6. Incorporate minced garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning and release its aromatic essence, about 30-45 seconds.
7. Pour cream into the skillet, reducing heat to low. Simmer gently, stirring intermittently, allowing the sauce to thicken for 3-4 minutes.
8. If sauce appears thin, whisk in cornstarch slurry to achieve desired consistency and create a luxurious texture.
9. Reintroduce crispy bacon to the skillet, mixing thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
10. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheeses over the mixture, creating a rich, melty topping.
11. Transfer skillet to preheated broiler, cooking for 2-3 minutes until cheese becomes golden and bubbly, and broccoli reaches desired tenderness.
12. Remove from broiler, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and add a final crack of black pepper before serving.

Notes

• Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness, ensuring it renders enough fat to enhance the dish’s overall taste profile.
• Select fresh broccoli with tight, vibrant green florets to guarantee optimal texture and nutritional value during cooking.
• Adjust cream thickness by controlling cornstarch slurry amount, preventing sauce from becoming too runny or overly dense.
• Swap heavy cream with lighter alternatives like half-and-half or milk for reduced-calorie version without compromising creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Side Dish, Snacks
• Method: Broiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg