This delicious dish combines fresh broccoli with the bold flavors of garlic and crispy bacon. It’s a quick and tasty way to enjoy your veggies!
You can’t go wrong with bacon, can you? I love making this as a side for dinner, and it’s a great way to sneak in some greens. Plus, the garlic smell fills the kitchen—so tempting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star here. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli works in a pinch. Just ensure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.
Bacon: I love using regular bacon for the flavor, but turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon can be great alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work if that’s what you have. You might use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for less intensity.
Onion: A small onion adds depth, but if you’re short on time, shallots work beautifully too. You can even skip the onion altogether for a simpler version.
Olive Oil/Bacon Drippings: I prefer using bacon drippings for that extra flavor boost, but extra virgin olive oil is a healthy substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option.
How Do I Cook Broccoli Perfectly Without Overcooking It?
The trick to the best pan-fried broccoli is to keep it tender yet crisp—not mushy! Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with small, uniform florets for even cooking.
- Add broccoli to the skillet only after the onions and garlic have been cooked to avoid burning.
- Keep the heat over medium. Stir frequently to ensure all sides get that golden color and flavor.
- Cook until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
To test for doneness, take a piece out and give it a bite! Adjust cooking time as needed. Enjoy your perfectly cooked, flavorful broccoli!
How to Make Pan-Fried Garlic Bacon Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or bacon drippings
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish comes together in about 15 minutes! You’ll spend around 5 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 10 minutes cooking. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and let it cook until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s nice and crunchy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside. Make sure to keep the bacon fat in the skillet for the next steps!
2. Sauté the Onion:
If needed, add olive oil to the skillet, bringing the total fat to about 2 tablespoons. Next, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This will add a lovely base flavor to the dish.
3. Add Garlic:
Once the onion looks good, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for just about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Garlic can go from perfect to burnt very quickly!
4. Sauté the Broccoli:
Now, it’s time to add the broccoli florets to the pan. Toss them well in the garlic, onion, and bacon fat mixture. You’ll want to cook the broccoli, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until it’s tender yet still crisp. The bright green color will let you know it’s just right!
5. Mix in the Bacon:
Once the broccoli is done, it’s time to return the crispy bacon to the skillet. Mix everything together well to combine those delicious flavors.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your dish with salt, pepper, and sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you’d like a little kick. Give it one last toss to combine all the flavors. Serve it immediately while it’s warm and enjoy your tasty side dish!
This savory, garlicky broccoli with crispy bacon bits is perfect alongside any meal. Enjoy your delightful homemade creation!
Can I Use Regular Olive Oil Instead of Bacon Drippings?
Absolutely! Regular olive oil works perfectly in this recipe. Just use about 2 tablespoons, and you’ll still achieve a deliciously sautéed broccoli without the bacon flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon to Make It Vegetarian?
If you want a vegetarian alternative, try using smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar umami taste. You can also use store-bought vegetarian bacon that can give you that crispy texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet on medium heat for the best texture, adding a splash of water to help it steam back to life if needed!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size for even cooking!