Name: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb broccoli florets; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

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There's something magical about the transformation of simple broccoli florets when roasted to perfection. The edges turn delightfully crispy, the center remains tender, and the garlic Parmesan topping takes this humble vegetable to a whole new level. It's a side dish that's just as irresistible as the main course!

I first discovered this recipe during a holiday dinner prep when I needed something quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. Since then, Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli has become a household staple, making weeknight dinners feel a little more special.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Get ready to make a veggie dish that steals the spotlight. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli isn’t just tasty – it’s a recipe that checks all the boxes for busy cooks and veggie skeptics alike.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can have this on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for hectic evenings or last-minute dinner plans.

Not to mention, it’s a healthy and guilt-free indulgence. Packed with nutrients like vitamin C and fiber, broccoli becomes a nutritional powerhouse when roasted without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the olive oil and Parmesan create a crispy, cheesy crust that even kids adore.

This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with just about anything. Whether it’s a roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a cozy pasta, this broccoli is the perfect complement. And let’s not forget – it’s a guaranteed hit at potlucks and holiday gatherings.

Finally, the rich garlic and Parmesan flavor combo makes it feel like a gourmet treat. Your family and friends will never guess how simple it was to make!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few fresh and flavorful ingredients, you’ll achieve a side dish that tastes restaurant-quality.

Broccoli Florets: The star of the show! Fresh broccoli works best here for its crisp texture and vibrant flavor. Aim for even-sized florets to ensure uniform roasting.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a bold, aromatic punch to this dish. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference – garlic lovers, this one’s for you!
Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded varieties often lack that punchy, nutty goodness.
Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil helps coat the broccoli evenly, ensuring it roasts to golden perfection.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning – it’s the key to enhancing all the flavors. Opt for kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best results.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a large baking sheet to spread the broccoli out in a single layer. This ensures even roasting and avoids steaming.

How To Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Creating this dish is a breeze, and the results are absolutely delicious. Here’s how to make it:

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving those crisp, golden edges on your broccoli. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the broccoli. Wash and thoroughly dry your broccoli florets – moisture can prevent them from roasting properly. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Toss with olive oil and seasonings. Drizzle the broccoli with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring each floret is lightly coated. Add the minced garlic, a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper, and toss until evenly combined.
Roast to perfection. Spread the seasoned broccoli onto your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. Look for crispy edges and tender stalks.
Add Parmesan and finish. During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the broccoli with ⅓ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Return to the oven and let it melt into a golden crust.
Serve and enjoy. Once out of the oven, transfer the broccoli to a serving dish and garnish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli stores wonderfully! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate: Place cooled broccoli in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: To bring back the crispiness, reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the broccoli soggy.
Freeze: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze roasted broccoli in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven for best results.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, making it easy to customize based on your preferences and pantry. Here are a few ideas:

Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor twist.
Add Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some lemon zest at the end brightens up the dish beautifully.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or toss in smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
Herb Lovers: Sprinkle fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary over the roasted broccoli for an herby finish.
Go Vegan: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, cheesy alternative.

No matter how you make it, Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli is sure to become a new favorite. Its irresistible flavor and versatility will have everyone reaching for seconds – even the veggie skeptics!