Easy Oven Roasted Broccoli Recipe
This easy oven roasted Parmesan broccoli is a simple and delicious way to turn fresh broccoli into a flavorful side dish. The broccoli is tossed with olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, and roasted until tender with lightly browned edges. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a delicious savory flavor that makes this an easy side dish to serve with my honey garlic chicken thighs, steak, pasta, or your favorite family dinner.
How to Make Roasted Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C/Gas Mark 6). While the oven is heating, wash the broccoli heads thoroughly and make sure to dry them well. Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets so they roast evenly and are easy to serve.
Place the broccoli florets into a large bowl and drizzle the olive oil over top. Season with salt and pepper and toss everything together well, making sure the broccoli is lightly coated with the oil and seasoning.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the seasoned broccoli florets evenly across the sheet. Try not to overcrowd the pan so the broccoli has enough room to roast and develop those delicious browned edges. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the broccoli before placing it into the oven for an extra savory flavor.
Bake the broccoli for 25–30 minutes, or until the florets are tender and the edges are lightly browned. Remove the roasted broccoli from the oven and serve it warm alongside your favorite main dish. This is such an easy and delicious way to enjoy broccoli as a simple side dish and pairs beautifully with my parmesan smashed potatoes and my roasted carrots!
Storage
Allow the roasted broccoli to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Roasted broccoli can be frozen, although it may become a little softer after thawing. Place the cooled broccoli in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
For the best texture, reheat leftover broccoli in the oven or air fryer until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, although it may not stay as crispy.
Ingredients
Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli florets are the main ingredient in this recipe. When roasted, they become tender on the inside with deliciously browned and slightly crispy edges.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps coat the broccoli so it roasts beautifully in the oven. It also adds a subtle savory flavor and helps the edges become golden and browned.
Salt & Pepper: Salt and pepper are simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the broccoli and bring all of the ingredients together.
Parmesan Cheese (optional): Parmesan cheese adds a delicious salty, savory, and cheesy flavor to the roasted broccoli. Sprinkle it over the florets before baking for an extra flavorful finish.
What to Serve with Roasted Broccoli
Roasted broccoli is a versatile side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. Serve it alongside roasted meats, chicken, pasta, or your favorite comfort food for an easy and flavorful dinner.
-
Spicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: The crispy, flavorful chicken pairs perfectly with tender roasted broccoli for an easy weeknight dinner.
-
Oven Baked Sweet Potatoes: Roasted broccoli and baked sweet potatoes make an easy, nutritious side dish combination that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve roasted broccoli with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort-food combination.
-
Oven Roasted Potatoes: Pair two crispy roasted sides together for an easy weeknight dinner or holiday meal.
- Roasted Asparagus: Serve roasted broccoli and asparagus together for an easy, flavorful vegetable side dish that’s perfect for family dinners and holiday meals.
Roasted broccoli is also delicious served alongside steak, roast beef, grilled chicken, salmon, or pasta. For an easy weeknight meal, pair it with your favorite protein and roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes.
Roasted Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 heads broccoli florets chopped
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 c. Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400℉/200℃/Gas Mark 6.
- Wash the broccoli heads and dry. Chop the broccoli heads into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Place the florets into a large bowl and sprinkle the olive oil on top. Season with salt and pepper.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the broccoli florets onto the sheet, making sure that they are spread out evenly. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese on the florets if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are just browned. Remove from the oven and serve with your favourite dish.
Notes
Author: Sarah Young
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen broccoli can be used, although fresh broccoli will generally give you better roasted edges and texture. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to remove as much excess moisture as possible before roasting.
How do I get crispy roasted broccoli?
Make sure the broccoli is completely dry before adding the olive oil and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Spreading the florets into a single layer gives them room to roast and develop delicious browned edges.
Can I use broccoli stems?
Absolutely! Broccoli stems are edible and can be roasted along with the florets. Peel away the tougher outer layer if needed and cut the stems into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.
Can I use fresh Parmesan cheese?
Yes! Freshly grated Parmesan works wonderfully and adds plenty of savory flavor. You can also use pre-grated Parmesan if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I add garlic to roasted Parmesan broccoli?
Definitely! Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic can be added for extra flavor. Garlic pairs especially well with the Parmesan and roasted broccoli.
Why is my roasted broccoli soggy?
Soggy broccoli is usually caused by excess moisture or overcrowding the baking sheet. Make sure the broccoli is dried thoroughly and spread it out in a single layer before roasting.
Can I make Parmesan roasted broccoli ahead of time?
Yes, although it is best served fresh from the oven. You can prepare the broccoli and seasonings ahead of time, then roast it just before serving.
Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely! Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, paprika, or a little lemon zest can all add delicious flavor to roasted broccoli.
Can I make this recipe without Parmesan cheese?
Yes! You can leave out the Parmesan if you prefer. The broccoli will still be delicious when roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
How do I know when roasted broccoli is done?
The broccoli should be tender when pierced with a fork and have lightly browned or crispy edges. You can roast it a little longer if you prefer your broccoli more browned and crispy.
Is roasted Parmesan broccoli good for Thanksgiving?
Yes! Roasted broccoli makes an easy vegetable side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other holiday meals. The Parmesan adds extra flavor while keeping the recipe simple.