If you are looking for a dish that combines comforting creaminess with vibrant green broccoli and a savory punch, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake Recipe is going to be your new favorite. This bake brings together crispy bacon, luscious garlic-infused cream, and a golden layer of melted cheeses, transforming humble broccoli into a rich and irresistible side or even a delightful main for any casual dinner or special occasion. It’s an easy, flavorful way to enjoy vegetables that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe keeps the process straightforward yet ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Each component, from the smoky bacon to the sharp Parmesan, plays an essential role in building layers of taste and creamy texture while giving the dish its inviting look.
- 5 oz (150g) bacon: Adds a smoky crunch that contrasts perfectly with creamy broccoli.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Helps sauté the broccoli for a rich, mellow base.
- 2 pounds (1kg) broccoli florets: The star ingredient providing freshness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a sharp and aromatic flavor that infuses the creamy sauce.
- 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that binds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese: Boosts creaminess and adds a tangy richness.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable stock: Lightens the sauce slightly while adding savory depth.
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese: Offers an intense, nutty flavor and helps the topping crisp beautifully.
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella: Melts perfectly to create a gooey, golden cheese topping.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready for the final bake and broil steps that give the dish its wonderful golden top.
Step 2: Fry the Bacon
In a large oven-safe skillet, fry the bacon strips until they are crispy and perfectly browned. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat while you prepare the broccoli.
Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli
Using the same skillet, melt the butter and add the broccoli florets along with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Sauté the broccoli for around six minutes—this slightly softens the florets while keeping their beautiful vibrant green color and a bit of crunch.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Next, stir in the minced garlic, heavy cream, cream cheese, chicken or vegetable stock, half of the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, plus the paprika. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the garlic and spices to infuse the sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Mix the crispy bacon back into the skillet, then spread the mixture evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella over the top to create that irresistibly cheesy crust. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the sauce is bubbly. Finally, broil for 2 minutes to achieve a deeply golden and crispy cheese topping.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and season with extra cracked pepper if you like. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh aroma to this delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake Recipe, ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A scattering of fresh parsley or chives adds brightness and a hint of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, a light drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely zing or gentle heat.
Side Dishes
This bake works beautifully alongside roasted meats like chicken, pork, or steak, as well as with simple rice or quinoa to round out a balanced meal. It also pairs wonderfully with freshly baked bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the bake family-style in the skillet for a rustic look that’s perfect for casual gatherings. Or, portion into individual ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation. You can also turn it into a hearty casserole by layering the broccoli mixture with cooked pasta or potatoes for an even more filling dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a convenient and tasty option for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this bake, but for best results, do so before baking. Assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture and avoid sogginess. Microwave works in a pinch but can sometimes make the cheese separate slightly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess water that could make the bake watery.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
To make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake Recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or substitute it with vegetarian bacon or smoked tofu for a similar smoky flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
While the dish relies on dairy for its signature creaminess and cheesy top, you can experiment with dairy-free cream alternatives and plant-based cheeses, though the flavor and texture will vary somewhat.
How spicy is this bake?
The recipe is mild with just a hint of warmth from the paprika; it’s perfect for most palates but can be spiced up easily with added cayenne or chili flakes.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bake and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking, making it a great time-saver for busy days or entertaining guests.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake Recipe has a special way of making broccoli feel like an indulgent treat rather than just a side vegetable. From its silky, garlicky sauce to the crispy bacon and cheesy crust, it’s a dish that truly brings comfort and joy to the table. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how easy it is to turn simple ingredients into something spectacular that everyone will love.
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli recipe delivers tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich, cheesy garlic sauce with crispy bacon bits, baked to bubbly perfection with a golden crust. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a satisfying low-carb option, this dish combines freshness, creaminess, and smoky flavors in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat
- 5 oz (150g) bacon, cut into strips
Vegetables
- 2 pounds (1kg) broccoli florets
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Other
- 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable stock
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the broccoli casserole.
- Fry Bacon: In a large oven-safe skillet, fry the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Sauté Broccoli: Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli florets along with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Cook the broccoli for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the minced garlic, heavy cream, cream cheese, chicken or vegetable stock, half of the parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, and paprika. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Bake: Mix the crispy bacon back into the skillet with the broccoli and sauce. Evenly top the mixture with the remaining parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the broccoli is tender. For a golden, crispy cheese top, broil the dish for an additional 2 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven, adjust seasoning with more fresh cracked pepper if desired, and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the cooked broccoli mixture to a baking dish before adding cheese and baking.
- Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian option.
- The recipe can be prepared ahead by cooking the bacon and broccoli mixture, then assembling and baking just before serving.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the paprika.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
