Description
Marry Me Broccoli is a creamy, flavorful side dish featuring tender fresh broccoli florets sautéed in olive oil and butter with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, then simmered in a rich Parmesan-infused cream sauce. This easy-to-make skillet recipe offers a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors that pair wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oil and butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted and hot.
- Sauté broccoli: Add the fresh broccoli florets and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and turn bright green.
- Add garlic and pepper flakes: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute to heat through and meld flavors.
- Add cream and cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Simmer broccoli in sauce: Continue cooking for 2 to 3 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender to your liking and well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Season and garnish: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the heavy cream.
- This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- To make this recipe vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; omit if preferred mild flavors.
- Use fresh herbs at the end for a bright, fresh finish.
