Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is a rich, cheesy side dish made with tender broccoli florets tossed in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy stovetop recipe turns simple broccoli into a comforting, family-friendly favorite perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain broccoli and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add broccoli to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
- Frozen broccoli can be used—thaw and drain well before cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg