Description
This Crispy Smashed Broccoli recipe delivers perfectly tender, flavorful broccoli with a crisp, cheesy crust. Steamed until bright green, smashed flat, brushed with garlic butter, and baked with Parmesan cheese, it’s a simple yet impressive side dish that’s quick to prepare and offers a delightful texture contrast and savory taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli
- 1 large head broccoli (or 2 medium heads)
Seasoning & Toppings
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1-2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3-4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon juice (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully heat to ensure crispiness during baking.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot or Dutch oven filled two-thirds with water to a boil. Place the whole head of broccoli, florets down, into the boiling water. Boil for 3-5 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and becomes tender. Remove carefully, then drain well in a colander to eliminate excess water.
- Prepare the Broccoli Florets: Once cool enough to handle, cut the broccoli into 1 to 2-inch florets. Pat each floret dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any moisture that could prevent crispness. Arrange the florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced at least 1 inch apart. Use the bottom of a flat glass or jar to gently smash each floret until they are about ¼ to ½ inch thick, ensuring they remain intact without breaking apart.
- Apply Garlic Butter and Cheese: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over each smashed floret. Then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously on top for a savory crust.
- Bake Until Crispy: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. The broccoli should develop a crispy edge and the Parmesan cheese should turn lightly browned. Remove from oven and optionally squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to add brightness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy smashed broccoli hot as a flavorful side dish, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Be sure to dry the broccoli florets thoroughly after boiling to achieve maximum crispiness when baked.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and Parmesan based on your flavor preferences.
- Smashing the broccoli too thin may cause the florets to fall apart; aim for about ¼ to ½ inch thickness.
- Lemon juice is optional but adds a fresh, bright contrast to the rich, cheesy flavor.
- This recipe can be adapted with other cheeses or seasonings, such as chili flakes or herbs, to customize flavor profiles.
