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Smashed Broccoli Parmesan Recipe

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.

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

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare it for roasting the broccoli.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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