If you’re craving a dish that combines crisp, vibrant greens with savory, smoky flavors, you have to try this Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Bacon Recipe. It’s a wonderful marriage of tender-crisp broccoli coated in a glossy, fragrant garlic sauce paired with crispy bacon that adds just the right amount of indulgence. Every bite bursts with texture and umami, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to share with friends or keep all to yourself for a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make the magic happen here, each lending its own unique character—whether it’s the fresh crunch of broccoli, the sizzle of bacon, or the savory punch from garlic and sauces. This list keeps things straightforward but flavorful.
- Broccoli: Use fresh broccoli cut into small pieces for that perfect tender-crisp bite and vibrant color.
- Bacon strips: Cut into small pieces, bacon adds richness and a smoky crunch that complements the garlic sauce beautifully.
- Oil: About 3 tablespoons for frying; a neutral oil works best to cook the bacon and garlic evenly.
- Garlic cloves: Finely chopped, 4-5 cloves pack a fragrant punch that’s essential to the sauce’s depth.
- Soy sauce: A half tablespoon for subtle saltiness and complexity.
- Oyster sauce: One teaspoon for its rich, slightly sweet umami flavor.
- Cornstarch: Half a tablespoon to thicken the sauce to a luscious, glossy finish.
- Water: One-third cup to balance the sauce and help it coat the broccoli evenly.
How to Make Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Broccoli to Perfection
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil with just a pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil. This boosts the broccoli’s natural color and flavor. Add the broccoli pieces and boil them for 3 to 5 minutes until they’re tender but still have a slight crispness. Drain them thoroughly afterward; this step is important to prevent watery sauce later on.
Step 2: Crisp Up the Bacon
Heat some oil in a frying pan and toss in the bacon pieces. Cook them until they’re golden brown and delightfully crisp. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the bacon rendered fat in the pan—that’s where the magic of flavor begins!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the finely chopped garlic into the pan with the leftover bacon oil. Fry it gently until golden brown and fragrant, which usually takes just a minute or two. While the garlic cooks, whisk together your sauce ingredients—a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water. Make sure the cornstarch dissolves completely to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Create the Glorious Garlic Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan with the garlic. Stir vigorously for about 10 seconds as the sauce thickens and becomes shiny. This rich, garlicky glaze forms the heart of the dish and will cling to every broccoli floret beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Everything and Serve
Return the cooked broccoli to the pan and toss to coat each piece evenly with the garlic sauce. Then, sprinkle the crispy bacon back in and gently mix it all together. Serve immediately to enjoy the broccoli’s crisp texture alongside the sauce’s warming flavors and bacon’s irresistible crunch.
How to Serve Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness and a bit of color on top never hurt anyone! Consider garnishing with freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Both add a nice texture contrast and elevate the visual appeal of this simple dish.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Bacon Recipe pairs perfectly with a bowl of steaming jasmine or basmati rice to soak up every drop of that brilliant garlic sauce. Alternatively, serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or even a light quinoa salad for a balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the dish inside individual lettuce cups or over a bed of crispy noodles for crunch. You could also toss in some toasted almonds or cashews to amp up the texture or add a few chili flakes if you like a little kick of heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve enjoyed your Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Bacon Recipe, store the leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a convenient next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
While the bacon and broccoli combo is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Place the cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 1 month. Keep in mind the broccoli’s texture may soften slightly after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve texture and flavor. Stir frequently and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the bacon crispy and the broccoli tender-crisp.
FAQs
Can I use smoked bacon or turkey bacon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Smoked bacon will enhance the smoky flavor, while turkey bacon is a leaner alternative. Adjust cooking time as needed since turkey bacon may crisp up faster or slower depending on thickness.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or crispy tofu for a satisfying vegetarian twist, keeping the same garlic sauce to maintain that delicious umami punch.
How do I make sure the broccoli stays crisp?
Boil the broccoli just until it’s tender but still firm, then drain quickly. Avoid overcooking and toss with the sauce immediately to preserve that perfect crispness.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. Mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This saves time when cooking and keeps the flavors fresh.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a bit of mushroom soy sauce to keep the same depth of flavor, though the taste will be subtly different.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love how effortlessly this Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Bacon Recipe comes together with just a handful of ingredients, yet delivers layers of flavor and texture that feel special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe never disappoints. Give it a try, and watch it become one of your go-to favorites!
Print
Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 3 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Broccoli with Garlic Sauce and Bacon dish that balances crisp-tender broccoli with a savory garlic sauce and crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick, satisfying side or light meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 broccoli (cut into small pieces)
- 4–5 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
Meat
- 2 strips bacon (cut into small pieces, adjust to taste)
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water
Cooking Essentials
- 3 tablespoons oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Boil Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil. Add the broccoli pieces and boil for 3-5 minutes until just tender yet still crisp. Drain thoroughly to prevent excess water in the sauce.
- Cook Bacon: Heat some oil in a frying pan and add the bacon pieces. Cook until they become crisp and golden brown. Remove and set aside, leaving some oil in the pan for the garlic.
- Fry Garlic: Add the finely chopped garlic to the remaining oil in the pan. Fry the garlic until it turns golden brown and fragrant. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water, stirring well to dissolve the cornstarch.
- Make Garlic Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the frying pan with the garlic. Stir constantly for about 10 seconds until the sauce starts thickening and becomes glossy.
- Toss Broccoli and Bacon: Add the boiled broccoli to the pan and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the garlic sauce. Return the crispy bacon pieces to the pan and mix gently to combine everything. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the boiled broccoli very well to avoid watery sauce.
- Adjust the quantity of bacon according to your preference or dietary needs.
- You can substitute oyster sauce with vegetarian oyster sauce for a vegetarian version.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the bacon and broccoli.
