The Ultimate Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Broccoli
Make flavorful, crispy-edged smashed broccoli that tastes rich and satisfying. This easy recipe transforms simple florets into a delicious side dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large heads of broccoli, cut into medium florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and boil for 3 to 4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Drain them immediately and let them cool slightly so you can handle them.
- Place the slightly cooled broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or a sturdy spatula, gently smash each floret until it flattens out slightly, creating more surface area for crisping. Do not crush them completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the oil mixture evenly over the smashed broccoli on the baking sheet. Toss gently to coat all the pieces.
- Roast for 15 minutes.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the broccoli.
- Return the broccoli to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, if using, before serving hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, ensure the boiled broccoli is well-drained before smashing and oiling.
- You can substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese if you need a dairy-free option.
- This dish works well as a low-carb broccoli recipe alternative to roasted cauliflower.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 10