Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe - A Beautiful Plate (2024)

Roasted broccoli tossed with sliced toasted almonds, red pepper flakes, garlic, lemon juice, and aged pecorino cheese.

Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe - A Beautiful Plate (1)

You guys. This roasted broccoli recipe. It is absurdly addictive! Quite possibly the best roasted broccoli you’ll ever make. Braceyourselves. I can easily consume a pound or two of broccoli in one sitting when it is prepared this way. Alarming, but true.

You allknow how much I lovemy vegetables. I can’t go without them,butthis is quite possibly the most tasty vegetable side dish on this blog.

These charred green beans and these fingerling potatoescome in at a close second. Oh, and these roasted sprouts and squash. Gah, don’t make me choose!

If it helps, Connor is equally as obsessed with this broccoli (it is one of his favorite things that I make) and it has gotten rave reviews from lots of family members and friends.

Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe - A Beautiful Plate (2)

Roasted Broccoli: Why You’ll Love It

If you’ve never roasted broccoli, you are missing out on the tastiest way to prepare it!

If you’ve hated broccoli up to this point(confession: I never experienced this phase of life), give this recipe and method a try. I have an inkling thatyou’ll become a broccoliconvert quite quickly.

It goes without saying thatmany vegetables taste better once caramelized and roasted in the oven. This isn’t ground breaking news, but broccoli is one of my all-time favorites.

Even more so than asparagus, carrots, and the other usual favorites. The broccoli florets get crispy and caramelized, and the normally flavorless stalkstransform into addictive bites of heaven. I mean, really, you could stop right there.

Once the roasted broccoli is mixed with toasted sliced almonds, lemon juice, garlic, red pepper flakes, and aged pecorino cheese – ugh,so good.

Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe - A Beautiful Plate (3)

So, here’s the deal. I actually posted a version of this roasted broccoli recipe along time ago, but I’ve adjusted and improved the recipe andfelt it deserved new life!

New and improvedrecipe, new pictures, all good things. Most often, I like to move forward and share new recipes, but sometimes the old ones need some love and attention, you know?

Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe - A Beautiful Plate (4)

My new favorite way to prepare this dish is to slice the broccoli into ‘steaks’.

It gives the dish a better presentation, and the flat sides of the broccoli steaks allow the piecesto more evenly caramelize on the sheet pan.

To make things easier, the raw sliced almonds are added to the sheet pan halfway through cooking. This makes things really easy, and eliminates the need to toast them separately in a skillet.

Tips for Making The Best Roasted Broccoli:

If you’re having difficulty slicing the broccoliinto ‘steaks’- medium florets will also work.

Just make sure your broccoli pieces are consistent in size (if the pieces vary in size, they will cook unevenly) and they are spread into an even, thin layer.

Ideally when roasting, you want the vegetablesnot to touch each other on the sheet pan. Crowding will result in uneven cooking, less caramelization, and longer cook times.

Many home ovens have not been calibrated recently and can be off by as much as 50 degrees in temperature! I highly recommend investing in a cheap oven thermometer(affiliate link).

Why is my broccoli roasting too quickly?

If your oven runs hot, I recommend reducing the oven temperature byat least25 degrees and vice versa. The high roasting temperature, included below, produces extra crispy florets and extra caremelization (aka. flavor!).

It goes without being said that this recipe serves3 to 4 people (in ‘normal’ world), but don’t be surprised if you find yourself consumingall of it in one sitting! It isthatgood. Just read the reader reviews below if you don’t believe me!

Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe - A Beautiful Plate (5)

The Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe

PrintPinReviewSave

Yield: 3 - 4 Servings

Prep: 10 minutes minutes

Cook: 20 minutes minutes

Total: 30 minutes minutes

Roasted broccoli tossed with sliced toasted almonds, red pepper flakes, garlic, lemon juice, and aged pecorino cheese. You won’t be able to stop eating this delicious broccoli side dish! Vegetarian and naturally gluten free.

Ingredients

  • lbs broccoli crowns roughly 2 heads
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves finely grated with a microplane or pressed
  • large pinch dried red pepper flakes
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 tablespoons raw sliced almonds, with or without skin
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2-3 tablespoons freshly grated aged pecorino cheese
  • zest of half a lemon

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 475°F (246°C) with a rack in the center postion. Oven TemperatureNote: I use a separate oven thermometer to ensure that my oven is calibrated properly.The high temperature ensures even and deep caramelization (and extra crispy, flavorful florets!).If your oven runs hot (you can check this by using an oven thermometer)or you prefer less crispy florets, reduce the oventemperature to 425°F-450°F (220°C-232°C) and adjust the cooking time as necessary.

  • Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil.Trim any dry, tough ends of the broccoli crowns, leaving roughly 2-inches of stalk attached.Slice the broccoli into ½-inch-thick steaks, starting in the center of each broccoli crown and working out to the edges, reserving any small or medium florets that fall off for roasting. Slice any large remaining florets in half lengthwise. Note: If you’re having difficulty slicing the broccoliinto ‘steaks’- medium florets will also work, but you will most likely need to reduce the temperature and roasting time to ensure that they do not burn. Try to make your broccoli pieces consistent in size, as this will help them roast evenly.

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, grated or pressed garlic cloves, and red pepper flakes.Add thebroccoli steaks and toss gently until evenly coated. Arrange the broccoli, cut-side down, on the lined sheet pan, setting them apart slightly. Sprinkle with salt.

  • Roast the broccoli for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven, flip the broccoli, and sprinkle the almond slices evenly across the sheet pan. Roast for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is evenly caramelized and fork tender, and the almond slices are toasted and golden.

  • Transfer the broccoli to a platter, toss gently with the lemon juice and top with the grated pecorino cheese. Garnish with fresh lemon zest. Serve hot or at room temperature (it also tastes great cold). Leftover broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Video

Tips for Success:

  • If you’re having difficulty slicing the broccoliinto ‘steaks’- medium florets will also work, but you may need to reduce the oven temperature and roasting time to ensure that they do not burn. Make sure your broccoli pieces are consistent in size (if the pieces vary in size, they will cook unevenly) and they are spread into an even, thin layer. Ideally when roasting, you want the vegetablesnotto touch each other on the sheet pan. Crowding will result in uneven cooking, less caramelization, and longer cook times.
  • Many home ovens have not been calibrated recently and can be off by as much as 50 degrees in temperature! I highly recommend investing in acheap oven thermometer. If your oven runs hot, I recommend reducing the oven temperature byat least 25 degrees and vice versa, and watching it carefully. The high roasting temperature, included below, produces extra crispy florets and extra caremelization (aka. flavor!).

Serving: 1serving, Calories: 182kcal, Carbohydrates: 7g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 17g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 14g, Cholesterol: 1mg, Sodium: 307mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 1g

Author: Laura / A Beautiful Plate

Course: Vegetable Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Note to Readers:Thisbroccoli recipe was originally published as ‘crack broccoli’ in 2015. It was updated and re-named in 2018. The use of slang was in poor taste and is not a reflection of my values or this site. I sincerely apologize to any readers or visitors that were hurt or offended, and am appreciative of yourcritical feedback. Thank you for listening!

This post contains affiliate links, which means that I make a small commission off items you purchase at no additional cost to you. Please read my privacy policy for more information.

Best Roasted Broccoli Recipe - A Beautiful Plate (2024)

FAQs

How do you stop broccoli from burning when roasting? ›

The tender, fuzzy “tree” tips of roasted broccoli florets are the most delicious, but they are also quick to burn. Make sure the florets are well-coated with olive oil to keep this from happening. Don't Crowd the Pan. If the florets are too close, they will steam instead of roast.

What cooking method is best for broccoli? ›

The easiest way to cook broccoli is to blanch it. Blanching is a process in which the broccoli is submerged in boiling water for only a few minutes, then transferred into an ice bath to keep it from overcooking and turning mushy. The broccoli florets will turn a vibrant shade of green and maintain a much-needed crunch.

Is baked broccoli still healthy? ›

Yes! Baked broccoli is super healthy and full of fiber, vitamin C, and even protein.

What is the best way to eat broccoli? ›

Broccoli can be eaten raw, but blanching it quickly in boiling water helps give it a more crisp-tender texture and bring out its flavor. Broccoli can also be steamed, sautéed, and roasted. You could even throw long spears on the grill!

Should broccoli be washed before roasting? ›

Wash AND dry your veggies.

After you wash your head of broccoli, make sure to dry it off before you toss it with the oil. A little moisture is ok, but if it's too wet when it goes in the oven, it won't get brown and crisp.

Why does my roasted broccoli taste bitter? ›

Some broccoli varieties are more bitter than others and bolt quicker, choose heat tolerant varieties or quick maturing varieties. Even if the head is small, pick your broccoli when the florets are tight, close together and bright green.

What does broccoli do to your body? ›

Broccoli contains many vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Broccoli's benefits include helping reduce inflammation, keeping blood sugar stable, and strengthening the immune system. Broccoli is a green vegetable that vaguely resembles a miniature tree. It belongs to the plant species known as Brassica oleracea.

Is it better to roast or steam broccoli? ›

When you want cooked broccoli, steaming or very brief microwaving are excellent choices.

Why is roasted broccoli so good? ›

After just 15 minutes in the oven, the florets come out crisp and browned at the edges with tender stems. Roasted broccoli makes a great weeknight side served on its own, but this cooking method also works well if you're adding it to a grain bowl or simple pasta dish.

Can you eat too much roasted broccoli? ›

Eating too much broccoli could affect thyroid function

Scientists say that eating broccoli or other cruciferous vegetables in excess could put you at risk for hypothyroidism, a disorder characterized by unintentional weight gain, depression, fatigue, joint pain, and muscle aches (per WebMD).

Can I eat broccoli every day? ›

Regularly incorporating broccoli into your daily diet can contribute to stronger bones and potentially lower the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis. Broccoli can be a beneficial inclusion in the diet of those seeking to manage their weight.

What seasoning is good for broccoli? ›

It's definitely hard to find a spice or herb that doesn't work with broccoli or broccolini. Any combination of garlic, salt, pepper and any classic herbs, (basil, rosemary, sage, parsley, tarragon, thyme, etc.,) is a surefire way to treat these veggies right.

What part of broccoli is not edible? ›

This post highlights just a few. Much like cauliflower, every part of the broccoli plant is edible. This Stir-Fried Broccoli combines the florets, stems, and leaves of the broccoli plant. This leaves nothing to waste.

When can broccoli not be eaten? ›

First, check the color of the florets. They should be a bright, uniform green. If they have any yellow or brown spots, that's a sign your broccoli is starting to spoil. If you notice fuzzy white or black patches growing on the florets or the stem, that tells you that mold is starting to form, and it's time to toss it.

How do you keep roasted vegetables from burning? ›

The sweet spot is between 400°F and 425°F. Go any higher, and the outside of your veggies will start to burn before the inside has a chance to cook through. Any lower? They'll still cook through (eventually), but the oven won't be hot enough to get your veggies golden, crispy, and caramelized.

How do you not burn vegetables in the oven? ›

Swich tip: the smaller the vegetable pieces, the higher the oven temperature needs to be. This may sound counter-intuitive. But here's why: smaller vegetables take less time to cook throughout. On the other hand, harder and bigger vegetables are better cooked at 350-400 to prevent the vegetables from burning.

Why do my vegetables burn in the oven? ›

The oven may not be working correctly and is going to a higher temperature. Get an oven thermometer and check that the temperature inside the oven is the same as what you set it to be. You should also make sure that you're watching the time!

Why does my broccoli always burn? ›

To help prevent over-browning or burning, make sure your broccoli is cut into roughly the same size pieces. You'll also want to make sure the florets are on the small side so they cook all the way through before the edges of the broccoli brown too much.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Arline Emard IV

Last Updated:

Views: 6103

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (72 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Arline Emard IV

Birthday: 1996-07-10

Address: 8912 Hintz Shore, West Louie, AZ 69363-0747

Phone: +13454700762376

Job: Administration Technician

Hobby: Paintball, Horseback riding, Cycling, Running, Macrame, Playing musical instruments, Soapmaking

Introduction: My name is Arline Emard IV, I am a cheerful, gorgeous, colorful, joyous, excited, super, inquisitive person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.