This Oven Roasted Parmesan Broccoli is a game-changer for veggie lovers and skeptics alike. Crispy, golden edges meet tender florets, all coated in a savory Parmesan crust that’s irresistibly cheesy and nutty. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a quick side dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, balanced by the broccoli’s natural sweetness and a hint of garlic. Packed with vitamins and fiber, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe proves healthy eating can be utterly crave-worthy.
What You’ll Need
- 5 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking)
- ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin works best for flavor)
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt (or substitute with ¼ teaspoon garlic powder + ¼ teaspoon salt)
- ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for better melting)
How to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the broccoli roasts evenly and caramelizes perfectly.
- Toss the broccoli: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets with olive oil. Mix well to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
- Season: Sprinkle the garlic salt over the broccoli and toss again to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil (for easy cleanup).
- Roast: Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and caramelize. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Add Parmesan: As soon as the broccoli comes out of the oven, transfer it back to the bowl and toss with the shredded Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will melt the cheese slightly.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy while warm for the best flavor and texture!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This Oven Roasted Parmesan Broccoli is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a juicy steak for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, pair it with quinoa or couscous for added texture and flavor.
Cheesy Twists: Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Swap out the Parmesan for cheddar or Pecorino Romano for a different cheesy flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or toss in some lemon zest for a bright, citrusy finish. Experiment with your favorite herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the dish to your taste.
Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks
To save time, prep your broccoli florets ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss them with oil and seasoning. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese instead of shredding it yourself. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste, as pre-shredded cheese can sometimes be saltier.
Keep It Fresh: Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the broccoli soggy and lose its crispy texture.
Kitchen Essentials: Equipment Guidance
For this recipe, a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil is key to easy cleanup. A mixing bowl large enough to toss the broccoli with oil and cheese is also essential. If you want to ensure even roasting, consider using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the broccoli, helping it crisp up evenly.
Oven Roasted Parmesan Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 cups broccoli florets, (cut into bite sized pieces)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, toss broccoli to coat with oil.
- Sprinkle garlic salt on top; mix to incorporate.
- Spread broccoli on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden brown (you want it to caramelize, but not burn).
- Place broccoli back in a bowl as soon as you pull it out of the oven and mix with cheese.
- Serve immediately.