Creamy Broccoli with Bacon

Ingredients :

• 1/2 cup raw bacon (about 4-6 slices) chopped into small pieces (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4-5 cloves garlic minced or crushed
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper optional
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream or light cream or half & half
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar, or your favorite melting cheese
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese optional

Instructions :

• Pre-heat oven to 400F. In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook chopped bacon for 2-3 minutes or until almost crispy.
• Remove bacon from pan and to the same pan, add the butter, garlic, broccoli, garlic powder, crushed red pepper and a dash of salt and pepper. Sautee for 2-3 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant. Add the heavy cream, cheese, and cooked bacon.
• Transfer to preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the broccoli is cooked to desired doneness. Serve as a side or eat as a main meal!