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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Recipe

4.7 from 109 reviews

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is an easy and flavorful side dish featuring tender broccoli florets blanched and tossed in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. This quick stovetop recipe delivers a satisfying combination of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, perfect alongside your favorite main courses.

Ingredients

Scale

Broccoli

  • 1 lb fresh broccoli florets

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Blanch Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for about 2–3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Simmer Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir well. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
  4. Add Parmesan: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a small splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
  5. Season Sauce: Stir in the onion powder and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
  6. Toss Broccoli in Sauce: Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet and gently toss to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the broccoli with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.

Notes

  • Blanching the broccoli helps retain its vibrant color and crisp-tender texture.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a lighter sauce, you may substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness or omit for a milder flavor.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or as a vegetarian side with pasta.

Keywords: broccoli side dish, creamy broccoli, garlic parmesan broccoli, easy vegetable recipe, stovetop broccoli