Let’s dive into the fun part — creating this dish! Cooking should feel like an adventure, so let’s get started:

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 3 minutes, until they’re bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
3. Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to bubble. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
6. Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat it thoroughly in the creamy sauce.
7. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top and give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

And just like that, you’ve created a dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Remember, cooking is a personal journey, so feel free to adjust flavors to suit your palate.