Introduction

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy broccoli with a crispy, cheesy twist. Roasting the smashed florets brings out a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory parmesan topping. It’s a quick side dish that’s sure to impress.

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 heads of broccoli
3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Cut the broccoli crowns into individual florets. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Pat thoroughly dry.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
Step 4: Grease a large baking sheet well. Spread the broccoli florets on the sheet and smash each floret flat using a glass jar or a heavy object.
Step 5: Drizzle the olive oil mixture over each smashed floret. Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top, then season with salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and broccoli edges are crisped to your liking.
Step 7: Remove from the oven, serve warm, and enjoy your crispy, cheesy smashed broccoli!

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, firm broccoli for the best texture and flavor.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Try topping with breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan for extra crunch.
For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before roasting.

Storage

Store leftover smashed broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on a baking sheet and warm in a 350-degree oven for 5-10 minutes to crisp back up. Avoid microwaving to keep them crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cut broccoli florets for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cut florets will work fine. Just make sure to dry them well after blanching to help them crisp up in the oven.

Is it possible to make this recipe without parmesan?

Absolutely! You can omit the parmesan or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative if desired, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan Recipe

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4.8 from 68 reviews

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan is a crispy, flavorful side dish featuring tender broccoli florets perfectly roasted with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a generous topping of melted parmesan cheese. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients and a unique smashing technique for a deliciously crunchy texture and rich flavor, ideal for a quick, healthy addition to any meal.

Author: Sophie
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

2 heads of broccoli

Seasonings and Oils

1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Cheese

3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare it for roasting the broccoli.
Prepare the broccoli: Cut the broccoli crowns into individual florets. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the broccoli florets. Boil them for 3-5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and immediately run under cold water to halt the cooking process. Pat the broccoli dry thoroughly to ensure crisp roasting.
Make the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
Smash the broccoli: Place the broccoli florets onto a generously greased large baking sheet, spreading them out evenly. Using a glass jar or another heavy object, smash each floret gently until flattened but still intact.
Season and top: Drizzle the prepared olive oil mixture evenly over the smashed florets. Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
Roast the broccoli: Roast the broccoli in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the parmesan cheese is melted and the broccoli is crisped to your liking.
Serve and enjoy: Remove from oven and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Be sure to pat the broccoli dry thoroughly after boiling to achieve optimal crispiness in the oven.
Feel free to use freshly grated parmesan for a more intense flavor.
Adjust seasoning amounts based on personal preference.
Smashing the broccoli helps create more surface area for crisping and flavor absorption.
This dish pairs well as a side with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main with a salad.

Keywords: smashed broccoli, roasted broccoli, parmesan broccoli, easy broccoli recipe, healthy side dish, vegetarian side