Roasted Parmesan Broccoli

This post may contain affiliate links · This blog generates income via ads · 44 Comments

This Roasted Parmesan Broccoli is a yummy, easy veggie side dish the whole family will love! Because sometimes you need a break from steamed broccoli - right? With just a few ingredients, this oven-roasted broccoli brings out the natural flavors of the veggie while adding a crispy, cheesy topping that is so delicious.

Roasted Parmesan Broccoli with garlic and red chili pepper flakes.

I think I’m pretty good at making veggies taste amazing. Like my balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts, white wine garlic green beans, and easy roasted vegetables. These are all winners say the people who've enjoyed them.

Today, I have another to add to the tasty veggie recipe lineup: Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan Cheese! It's so delicious and so perfect for any time of year.

And if you're a broccoli lover like me you should also try my Broccoli Salad with Grapes and Bacon, Ranch Chicken Broccoli Casserole, and my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Broccoli and Swiss Cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

20-Minute Recipe. This deliciously easy roasted broccoli recipe is prepped and cooked in just 20 minutes!
Perfect Side Dish. It is an easy side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course.
Family Favorite. Even those picky eaters will love this garlic parmesan roasted broccoli.
Versatile. Grated parmesan is my favorite topping but you can tweak the seasonings or add-ins to your personal preferences (see variations below).

Close-up of the cooked broccoli on a platter.

Ingredients

Broccoli. I used a broccoli head but you can also buy pre-cut fresh broccoli florets.
Fresh garlic. Fresh garlic adds a depth of flavor to roasted Parmesan broccoli, enhancing its overall taste.
Parmesan. Grated parmesan melts and slightly crisps up, creating a delicious, golden-brown savory crust on the florets.
Lemon zest. Lemon zest is a great way to add a bright, fresh, and slightly tangy flavor to the simple side dish.
Red pepper flakes. Red pepper flakes for a bit of added heat. This step is optional.

How to Roast Broccoli?

Cut the broccoli into one-inch thick steaks.

Seasoning it on a baking sheet before baking.

Season with salt, black pepper, and chili pepper flakes, and toss gently with a little olive oil.

Bake for about 10 minutes, add thinly sliced garlic cloves, and then back into the hot box for 6 more minutes.

Finally, sprinkle the broccoli with some grated Parmesan cheese and finish it in the oven for about 2 more minutes. Dust it with some lemon zest, and indulge!

Roast Broccoli Variations

This oven-roasted broccoli recipe is so delcious just the way it is but you can change it up with seasonings or add-ins to your personal preference. Here's some ideas for you:

Almond – Add sliced or slivered almonds when serving for some nice texture.
Lemon Juice – This recipe already includes lemon zest as an ingredient so some fresh squeezed lemon juice over the roasted broccoli just before serving would be an excellent addition.
Cheese - Swap out the grated parmesan cheese for crumbled feta, goat cheese or blue cheese when serving.
Bacon – Sprinkle some cooked bite-sized bacon pieces over the roasting broccoli 3-5 minutes before it's finished cooking.
Dressing - Drizzle on some Italian dressing or balsamic vinegar when serving or offer a side of ranch dressing as a dipping sauce for the broccoli.

What to Serve with it?

This roasted broccoli recipe is super simple and always delicious! Pair it with some Salmon Patties, or Parmesan Crusted Chicken, and cheesy mashed potatoes and you've got a perfect combo!

Storing, Reheating, and Freezing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Reheat the broccoli on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F. If it seems a bit dry, you can drizzle it with a little olive oil before reheating. Bake for 10 minutes. Or reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

To freeze transfer the cooked and cooled broccoli to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.

FAQ's

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Thaw the broccoli first, either overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave. Be sure to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess. After thawing, pat the broccoli dry to ensure it roasts well.

Can I make roasted parmesan broccoli in the air fryer?

Yes! Air fryer broccoli is just as easy. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, and toss the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add some grated Parmesan at this stage or wait for the last 2 minutes. Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Air fry for about 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the broccoli is crispy and golden brown. Add Parmesan during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to let it melt and get the crunchy bits without burning.

Can I add other veggies to this recipe?

Of course! Broccoli roasts well with cauliflower, brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and green beans.

This oven roasted parmesan broccoli is a tasty and easy way to enjoy this veggie. With its crispy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

I hope you enjoy this healthy, delicious side dish as much as I do!

Looking for more Recipes with Broccoli?

Yield: 8 servings