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Creamy Broccoli & Bacon is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something unforgettable. With tender broccoli, crispy bacon, and a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce, this side dish feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s one of those recipes you’ll keep returning to, whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or putting together a festive holiday table.
This creamy broccoli side dish is one of those recipes that makes even reluctant vegetable eaters ask for seconds. It’s warm, comforting, and surprisingly easy to throw together on a busy evening.
Essential Ingredients and Why They Matter
- Bacon: Adds smoky, savory crunch to the dish. A little goes a long way to flavor the entire skillet.
- Butter: Provides richness and helps saute the vegetables.
- Garlic: Brings aromatic depth that lifts the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream: The luxurious base of the sauce. Light cream can be used with a cornstarch slurry if you prefer.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully over the top for that gooey finish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor to balance the richness.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh is best, but frozen can work if thawed and drained well.
If you want to change it up, swap mozzarella for Gruyere or provolone—the creamy broccoli bake turns out extra decadent.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Fry the Bacon
- In a large oven-safe skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a little bacon fat in the pan.
- Step 2: Saute the Aromatics
- Add a small amount of butter to the skillet. Saute diced onion (optional) and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
- Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir to coat in the butter and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes for crisp-tender broccoli, or longer if you prefer it softer.
- Step 4: Add the Cream and Bacon
- Pour in the cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cooked bacon. Let it simmer gently for 2–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 5: Top with Cheese and Broil
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the skillet. Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
My personal favorite way to serve this is with garlic butter roast chicken or even spooned over a baked potato for a cozy, comforting meal.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Serve creamy garlic parmesan broccoli & bacon recipe alongside roast beef, garlic herb pork, or seared salmon. It also makes a beautiful side for vegetarian plates or holiday spreads. A slice of crusty no-knead bread makes the perfect companion to soak up every bit of sauce.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate before the broil step.
- Fridge Storage: Keeps for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in the oven or stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Recipe Variations & Twists
- Turn it into broccoli and bacon pasta by tossing it with cooked fettuccine or penne.
- Make it a broccoli bacon pasta Jamie Oliver style with lemon zest and chili flakes.
- Swap bacon for pancetta or turkey bacon for different flavors.
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Whether you're looking for a simple creamed broccoli recipe or a creamy broccoli side dish that steals the show, this one is sure to become a favorite. Rich, hearty, and full of cheesy goodness, it's an irresistible way to get more greens on the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use heavy cream instead of light cream?
- Yes, heavy cream will make the sauce even richer and creamier.
- → Can I make it vegetarian?
- Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- → How do I avoid overcooking the broccoli?
- Simmer for just 3 minutes and broil briefly to keep it crisp-tender.
- → Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Fresh broccoli is best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain it well first.
- → What other cheeses can I use?
- Gruyere or Monterey Jack are great substitutes for mozzarella and parmesan.