Loaded Broccoli in Creamy Garlic Sauce

Name: Loaded Broccoli in Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 c bacon chopped; 1 onion diced; 5 tbsp garlic minced; 1 1/2 C Heavy Cream; 1 pound broccoli florets; 1 c mozzarella cheese shredded

By Lori Taylor

5 from 1 vote

Jan 03, 2024

Overhead view of Loaded Broccoli in Creamy Garlic Sauce

Jump to Recipe Jump to Video

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

This Loaded Broccoli in Creamy Garlic Sauce is simply heaven in a dish. It’s an easy side dish that includes bacon and broccoli. Add in creamy garlic sauce, and you will have a hard time not finishing this perfect side dish.

vertical close up shot of broccoli in creamy garlic sauce with cheese and bacon on wooden spoon

We love this recipe! It’s not only keto and low carb friendly, but the flavors result in a creamy sauce that ends with bacon! It’s a family WIN!

However, the broccoli is the star of the show in this creamy garlic sauce recipe and will become a staple recipe in your home. Not to mention, transition those non-broccoli fans, into broccoli lovers!

How to Select, Store and Serve

Learn how you can select, store and serve broccoli!

close up shot of cheese melting on top of broccoli and bacon

Can I substitute frozen broccoli for fresh?

If you have a bag of broccoli in the freezer, get it out! Be sure to steam the frozen broccoli first so that it cooks evenly with the other ingredients. Be sure to remove any access water from the frozen broccoli so that it doesn’t thin out the garlic sauce.

What can I serve with loaded broccoli?

We often eat this recipe for lunch or as our main meal. However, you can absolutely serve this as a side dish. Black Bean Burgers would be a great option!

Ingredient Substitutions

onion – feel free to use a white or red onion. Both are equally delicious!

heavy cream – the heavy cream helps to thicken the garlic sauce.

broccoli – fresh or frozen. If you are using frozen broccoli, steam in the microwave for a few minutes.

mozzarella cheese – you can also use provolone, parmesan, white cheddar, grueye or swiss cheese if you prefer.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Sauce with Bacon and Broccoli

ingredients for loaded broccoli in creamy garlic sauce

Bacon
Onion
Garlic
Heavy cream
Broccoli
Mozzarella cheese

How to Make Loaded Broccoli in Creamy Garlic Sauce

First, start by browning your bacon. We love crunchy bacon, but, cook it how your family enjoys it. Once the bacon has cooked, remove and allow to drain on a paper towel.

onions being cooked in bacon fat in cast iron skillet

Leave the bacon grease in the pan and sautee your onions for about 3 minutes until they are soft and translucent.

broccoli and garlic added to cast iron skillet with onions

Next, add in your broccoli and garlic. Allow to cook for 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant in color and fork tender.

heavy cream being poured into cast iron skillet with broccoli

Pour in the heavy cream. Be sure to reduce your heat to low and allow to simmer for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.

overhead shot of loaded broccoli with creamy garlic sauce before mixed in cast iron skillet

Add in the cooked bacon.

cheese and bacon topped broccoli with garlic sauce in cast iron skillet

Then top with either shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese. Allow the cheese to melt for a few minutes or stick in the oven under the broiler to melt the cheese. It will turn a light golden brown.

You can top with crushed red pepper flakes if you choose!

close up vertical shot of broccoli in creamy garlic sauce in cast iron skillet

Try more delicious broccoli recipes

Broccoli Apple Salad – if you aren’t a fan of mayo, this recipe is for you!
Broccoli and Beef Stir Fry – you can’t go wrong with takeout made at home.
Creamy BLT Broccoli Slaw – bacon and broccoli go so well together, a modern day recipe packed full of crunchiness and flavor!

Save Pin Print

5 from 1 vote