Place broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with water. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir and cook for 1 more minute. Drain and set aside.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
In a large cast-iron skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove onto a plate. Drain grease from the pan.
Melt one tablespoon of butter in skillet. Add garlic and onion and saute for 3 minutes.
Add Italian seasoning and stir in.
Whisk cornstarch with half and half. Add to sauteed veggies in skillet.
Simmer sauce, stirring often, until thickens. Turn off the heat.
Add dried parsley, salt and pepper to sauce and stir. Add broccoli and half of cooked bacon. Stir gently to coat broccoli in sauce.
Top broccoli with shredded cheese and remaining bacon.
Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until bubbly.
Notes
You can use frozen steamable broccoli and pop it into a microwave for 3 to 4 minutes (according to the instructions on the package). Drain well and use in the recipe.