Looking for a simple yet mouth-watering dish that's guaranteed to impress? Our Broccoli and Bacon in Creamy Garlic Sauce has got you covered! This irresistible combination of tender broccoli, crispy bacon, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce creates the perfect balance of flavors. So, why settle for ordinary when you can savor the extraordinary with every bite? 

• Simple to Make
• Easy & Affordable Ingredients
• It's addictive to eat
• Throw in some cooked chicken breasts for a complete meal
• I nibble on this for lunch or as a side dish with grilled chicken breasts
• A recipe with bacon, need I say more?

Ingredients For Broccoli and Bacon In a Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Broccoli
• Bacon
• Onion
• Garlic
• Heavy Cream
• Mozzarella Cheese

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How To Make Creamy Garlic Sauce with Broccoli and Bacon

First, start by browning your bacon. We love crunchy bacon, but, cook it how your family enjoys it. Once the bacon has cooked, remove and allow to drain on a paper towel.

Leave the bacon grease in the pan and sautee your onions for about 3 minutes until they are soft and translucent.

Next, add in your broccoli and garlic. Allow to cook for 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant in color and fork tender.

Pour in the heavy cream. Be sure to reduce your heat to low and allow to simmer for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened. Add in the cooked bacon.

Then top with either mozzarella or parmesan cheese that is freshly shredded. Allow the cheese to melt for a few minutes or stick in the oven under the broiler to melt the cheese and the cheese turns a light golden brown.

You can top with crushed red pepper flakes if you choose! I sprinkle a few on mine and leave it off for everyone else….gotta make everyone happy, right?!?

 

 

Variations

Vegetarian Version

For those who prefer a meat-free option, making a vegetarian version of this dish is simple and delicious. Just swap out the bacon for a flavorful alternative.

1. Replace the Bacon: Use smoked tempeh or coconut bacon instead of traditional bacon. These substitutes offer a similar smoky flavor and satisfying crunch.
2. Coconut Cream: This is a great replacement for heavy cream.
3. Add Extra Seasoning: Without bacon's natural saltiness, you might want to add a pinch of smoked paprika and a dash of soy sauce to give the dish that umami kick.
4. Enhance with Nuts: Consider tossing in a handful of toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for added texture and protein.

Adding More Vegetables

• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring a savory depth and meaty texture.
• Bell Peppers: Add some diced bell peppers for a pop of color and a slight sweetness.
• Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach towards the end of cooking for an easy way to sneak in some leafy greens.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add a burst of juiciness and a touch of acidity.
• Zucchini: Sliced zucchini cooks quickly and pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Spicy Twist

If you enjoy a bit of heat in your meals, adding a spicy kick to this creamy garlic sauce is a fantastic option. Here’s how you can turn up the heat:

1. Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a mild, even heat.
2. Chili Sauce: Add a splash of your favorite hot sauce or a teaspoon of Sriracha to the cream sauce for a bolder, spicier flavor.
3. Jalapeños: Dice fresh or pickled jalapeños and stir them into the dish. They provide a spicy, tangy bite.
4. Smoked Paprika: A teaspoon of smoked paprika will give the dish a smoky heat that complements the bacon.

 

Tips and Tricks

Making sure your Broccoli and Bacon in Creamy Garlic Sauce turns out perfect every time requires a few key tips and tricks. This section covers everything from nailing the sauce to achieving that ideal bacon crispiness.

Perfecting the Sauce: Tips for ensuring the sauce has the right flavor and consistency

The creamy garlic sauce is the heart of this dish. Getting the flavor and consistency just right can make all the difference.

1. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give the sauce a robust flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic as it can have a milder taste.
2. Low and Slow: Simmering the sauce on low heat prevents it from burning and keeps it smooth. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Heavy Cream is Key: Heavy cream creates a rich, velvety texture. If you find the sauce too thick, a splash of milk can help achieve the desired consistency.
4. Season Well: Don't forget to season your sauce with salt and pepper to taste. A pinch of nutmeg can also add a subtle warmth.
5. Stir Constantly: Keep stirring to avoid lumps. A whisk can be handy here.

With these tips, your sauce will have the perfect balance of creaminess and garlic flavor.

Crispy Bacon Tips: Advice on achieving perfectly crispy bacon every time

Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the dish. Here's how to get it just right:

1. Start with a Cold Pan: Arrange your bacon slices in a cold skillet. This helps the fat render slowly, resulting in crispier bacon.
2. Cook on Medium Heat: Medium heat allows the bacon to cook evenly, making it crispy without burning.
3. Flip Occasionally: Turn the bacon occasionally to ensure both sides cook evenly.
4. Drain Excess Grease: Once the bacon is crispy, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra grease. This keeps it crunchy.
5. Save the Bacon Grease: Keep the bacon grease in the pan to sauté your onions and garlic. It adds an extra layer of flavor to the sauce.

How to Store

When you've finished making your delicious Broccoli and Bacon in Creamy Garlic Sauce, you might have some leftovers. Once the Broccoli and Bacon has cooled, move it to an airtight container. This dish can last in the fridge for up to 3 days, maintaining its best quality in that timeframe.

Reheating

Reheating without ruining the texture or flavor is an art. Here’s how to ensure it tastes just as good as when it was first cooked:

Stovetop Method:

• Warm the Sauce First: Pour the leftovers into a skillet or saucepan. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Add Moisture: Since the sauce might have thickened in the fridge, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. This helps to maintain the creamy texture.
• Heat Gradually: Keep the heat gentle to avoid separating the sauce. Stir until everything is warmed through evenly.

Microwave Method:

• Transfer to Microwave-Safe Dish: Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Cover Loosely: Use a microwave cover or a paper towel to avoid splatters, but don’t seal it tightly, so steam can escape.
• Heat in Intervals: Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, then stir. Continue heating in 30-second increments until the dish is hot throughout. This prevents overcooking certain areas.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! It's convenient and often just as nutritious as fresh broccoli. Here's how to make the switch:

• Thaw First: Thaw the frozen broccoli before cooking. You can do this by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the microwave.
• Drain Excess Water: After thawing, make sure to drain any excess water. Pat the broccoli dry with paper towels to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Frozen broccoli is usually par-cooked, so it will need less time to become tender. Add it to the skillet towards the end of the sauce preparation and cook for a few minutes until heated through.

Using frozen broccoli can save time and ensure you always have the main ingredient on hand, even if fresh isn't available.