Smashed Broccoli Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan is a delightful twist on classic roasted broccoli. Crispy on the edges and topped with savory parmesan, this easy side dish brings bold flavor to your table in less than an hour.

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
• Black pepper

Instructions

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

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, broil the broccoli for the last 2-3 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
• Substitute parmesan with pecorino or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven to maintain crispiness; microwaving may make the broccoli soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Fresh broccoli works best for smashing and roasting, but if using frozen, thaw and dry it thoroughly before proceeding.

Is it necessary to boil the broccoli before roasting?

Boiling softens the broccoli, allowing it to smash easily and roast evenly, resulting in a tender inside and crispy edges.

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan Recipe

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4.4 from 139 reviews

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan is a delicious and easy side dish featuring broccoli florets that are boiled, smashed, seasoned with garlic, onion powder, Italian herbs, and olive oil, then topped with parmesan cheese and roasted to crispy perfection. This recipe offers a flavorful way to enjoy broccoli with a cheesy, savory twist.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli

• 2 heads of broccoli

Seasoning & Toppings

• 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

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare it for roasting the broccoli.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli heads into individual florets. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the broccoli florets, and cook them for 3-5 minutes. After boiling, drain and immediately run the florets under cold water to halt the cooking process. Pat the broccoli dry thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
3. Make the Olive Oil Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to blend all the flavors together.
4. Smash the Broccoli Florets: Place the broccoli florets on a well-greased large baking sheet, spreading them out evenly. Using a glass jar or another heavy object, gently smash each floret until it is flattened but not fully crushed.
5. Season and Add Cheese: Drizzle or brush the prepared olive oil mixture over each smashed floret. Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Roast the Broccoli: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the broccoli for 30-35 minutes, or until the parmesan cheese is melted and the broccoli edges are crisped to your liking.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm as a delicious and nutritious side dish.

Notes

• Make sure to dry the broccoli thoroughly after boiling to ensure it crisps up nicely during roasting.
• You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
• Use kosher salt or sea salt for better seasoning.
• For extra crispiness, broil the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
• This dish pairs well with grilled meats or pasta.

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