Get ready for a flavor explosion! This isn’t your average steamed broccoli. We’re talking about a rich, savory combination of pungent blue cheese, smoky bacon, and tender broccoli, all brought together in a luscious cream sauce. It’s an incredibly decadent side dish that comes together in minutes. Perfect for a quick keto-friendly meal or as a show-stopping side for a family dinner, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create truly unforgettable flavors.
Ingredients
• 50 g / 3.5 tbsp 40% heavy cream
• 24 g / ¼ cup cooked broccoli florets
• 12 g / 1 slice cooked and crumbled bacon, sugar-free
• 11 g / 2.5 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• 10 g / 1 tbsp crumbled blue cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, crumbled bacon, olive oil, crumbled blue cheese, and about half of the heavy cream.
2. Heat the mixture in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the cheese is fully melted and everything is warmed through.
3. Stir vigorously to combine the melted cheese, cream, and oil, creating a smooth, emulsified sauce that coats the broccoli and bacon.
4. Season with salt and pepper if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
• This is a low-carb, high-fat (LCHF) recipe ideal for a ketogenic diet. Exact nutritional values will vary based on the specific brands and used. Please calculate based on your own for the most accurate information.
Pro Tips
• For a richer, more evenly heated sauce, prepare this dish in a small saucepan on the stovetop over low heat instead of the microwave.
• Swap the protein by replacing the bacon with leftover grilled steak or beef tenderloin. If using a lean cut, you may need to adjust the amount of olive oil.
• For the best texture, steam or blanch the broccoli until it is tender-crisp before adding it to the sauce. Avoid overcooking, which can make it mushy.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute the blue cheese with Gorgonzola, or for a completely different profile, try crumbled feta or goat cheese.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this blue cheese broccoli on the stovetop instead of the microwave
A: Yes, absolutely. For a richer, more evenly heated sauce, prepare this dish in a small saucepan on the stovetop over low heat. Gently combine all ingredients and warm through, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Q: What can I substitute for blue cheese in this recipe
A: If you prefer a milder flavor, Gorgonzola is an excellent substitute for blue cheese. For a completely different but delicious taste profile, you could also try crumbled feta or goat cheese in this creamy broccoli recipe.
Q: Is this broccoli with bacon and blue cheese truly keto-friendly
A: Yes, this recipe is specifically designed as a low-carb, high-fat (LCHF) side dish, making it perfect for a ketogenic diet. To ensure it stays keto, use sugar-free bacon and full-fat heavy cream.
Q: What’s the best way to cook the broccoli beforehand
A: For the best texture, we recommend steaming or blanching the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the broccoli mushy when mixed with the warm cheese sauce.
