Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish featuring tender broccoli florets coated in a rich garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free meal, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses or can be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Dairy & Fats
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest of ½ lemon (optional)
Garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2–3 minutes until they are just tender but maintain their vibrant green color. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
- Combine Broccoli and Sauce: Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat the florets evenly with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through and well incorporated.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove from heat and add the lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor if desired. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
- Add cooked chicken or bacon to the dish for a heartier meal.
- This dish serves as a great low-carb side or a satisfying vegetarian main course.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- To make it vegan, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegan Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
