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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is a quick, delicious, and healthy side dish that combines tender broccoli florets with a luscious garlicky and cheesy sauce. Ready in under 15 minutes, this creamy and flavorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or as a versatile side that pairs well with chicken, fish, pasta, or can be enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Dairy & Fats

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Flavorings & Seasonings

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the broccoli: Thoroughly wash the broccoli and cut it into bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and perfect sauce coverage.
  2. Cook the broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside to maintain vibrant color and texture.
  3. Make the garlic Parmesan sauce: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
  4. Add cream and cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2 minutes to slightly thicken. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Combine and season: Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece with the creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute to meld the flavors together.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese yourself to ensure smooth melting and taste.
  • Do not overcook the broccoli; blanch just until tender-crisp for the best texture.
  • Warm the cream slightly before adding to avoid cheese clumping.
  • If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk; if too runny, simmer longer before adding broccoli.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy broccoli, garlic Parmesan broccoli, healthy side dish, quick broccoli recipe, cheesy broccoli

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-broccoli/