Print

Crispy Parmesan Smashed Broccoli with Garlic Butter

Close-up of crispy, charred, and cheesy smashed broccoli served on a white plate.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this simple smashed broccoli recipe for a flavorful, crispy side dish. We blanch the broccoli, smash the florets, and roast them with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese for a tender-crisp texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of broccoli (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the broccoli into medium florets. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain the broccoli immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat the florets very dry with paper towels.
  3. Place the dried broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a heavy glass or a meat mallet to gently smash each floret until it is flattened but still holds together.
  4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the smashed broccoli florets.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes.
  7. Remove the sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Return to the oven and roast for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the cheese is golden brown.
  8. Serve immediately as an easy side dish.

Notes

  • Drying the broccoli well after blanching is key to achieving maximum crispiness when roasting.
  • You can substitute the fresh minced garlic with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt if you prefer a simpler seasoning.
  • This recipe works well as a low carb side dish for any main course.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://completelyyummy.com/smashed-broccoli-recipe-garlic-parmesan/