Creamy Garlic Broccoli Bacon (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
8 ounces bacon, roughly chopped
02 -
2 tablespoons butter
03 -
1 onion, diced
04 -
5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
05 -
1 1/2 cups light cream (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
06 -
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (cornstarch slurry)
07 -
1 pound broccoli florets (from 2-3 heads, stems removed)
08 -
1 pinch salt, to season
09 -
1 pinch pepper, to season
10 -
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
11 -
1/3 cup parmesan cheese, freshly shredded or grated
# Instructions:
01 -
Set the broiler to medium heat, if the option is available.
02 -
In a large oven-safe skillet, fry the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
03 -
Drain most of the bacon fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons for added flavor. Adjust to your preference.
04 -
Melt butter in the same pan. Add the onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent. Stir in the broccoli, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vibrant in color.
05 -
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the cream, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
06 -
If the sauce is too thin, add the cornstarch slurry and stir until combined.
07 -
Add the cooked bacon back into the pan and stir to combine all flavors.
08 -
Top the dish with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden, and the broccoli is cooked to your liking.
09 -
Season with extra pepper, if desired, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For tender-crisp broccoli, simmer in the cream sauce for 3 minutes before broiling. Longer cooking will result in softer broccoli.
02 -
For softer broccoli, simmer for 5-6 minutes. Cover with a lid for an additional 1-2 minutes for extra tenderness.