Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon Recipe

If you're looking for a flavorful and comforting dish, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon recipe is a perfect choice. Combining crispy bacon, tender broccoli, and a rich garlic cream sauce, this dish is both delicious and satisfying. Topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, it’s an ideal side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to create this delightful dish:

• 8 ounces bacon, roughly chopped: Adds a savory and crispy element to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Provides a rich base for sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Infuses the sauce with a robust garlic flavor.
• 1 ½ cups light cream (or heavy/thickened cream for a richer sauce): Creates the creamy base of the sauce.
• 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (cornstarch slurry): Helps to thicken the sauce.
• 1 pound broccoli florets (from 2-3 broccoli heads, stems removed): The main vegetable component, providing a fresh and nutritious element.
• 1 pinch salt, to season: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 pinch pepper, to season: Adds a subtle spice.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella: Melts into the sauce, adding a creamy texture.
• ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, fresh shredded or grated: Adds a sharp and nutty flavor to the dish.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and comforting Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon dish. This recipe combines the savory flavors of bacon with tender broccoli and a rich, creamy garlic sauce.

Step 1: Preheat Broiler

Preheat your broiler to medium heat if you have the option. This will be used later to melt and brown the cheese on top of the dish.

Step 2: Cook Bacon

In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, fry the roughly chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up some of the oil. Set the bacon aside for later. Drain most of the bacon fat from the pan, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons for added flavor. Adjust this amount to your liking.

Step 3: Cook Onions and Broccoli

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s transparent, about 2 minutes. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits leftover from the bacon. Add the broccoli florets, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook while stirring occasionally for about 3 minutes, or until the broccoli starts to turn a vibrant green color.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Cream

Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet and stir it through the broccoli for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in 1 ½ cups of light cream (or heavy cream for a richer sauce). Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your liking. If the sauce is too thin, stir in the cornstarch slurry to combine and thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet and give everything a good mix to combine all the flavors. Top the dish with ½ cup of shredded mozzarella and ⅓ cup of grated parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Broil

Place the skillet under the broiler and broil until the cheese is bubbling and golden, and the broccoli is cooked to your liking. This should take about 2-3 minutes, depending on your broiler. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Season the dish with a little extra pepper if desired before serving. You can also sprinkle it with fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor and presentation. Serve hot and enjoy this savory and comforting dish!

Serving and Storage Tips

Enjoying your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon is simple with these serving and storage tips. Proper storage ensures that you can savor this delicious dish even as leftovers.

• Serving: Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or as a hearty side for a vegetarian meal. The rich garlic parmesan sauce complements a variety of main courses. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor and presentation.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Transfer the broccoli bacon mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Proper storage helps maintain the flavor and texture of the dish.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, though the stovetop method helps maintain the texture better. Add a splash of cream if the sauce needs loosening.

Helpful Notes and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon and make it your own:

• Vegetable Additions: Add some vegetables to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus work well. Simply sauté them with the onions and broccoli.
• Cheese Options: While mozzarella and parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the garlic parmesan flavors.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or chives can be sprinkled on top just before serving for added freshness and color. Dried herbs can also be used in the cooking process.

Renowned chef Ina Garten often says, "Cooking is one of the great gifts you can give to those you love." Embrace this spirit when making your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bacon by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create a dish that reflects your personal taste. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out new variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.