Roasted Broccoli With Parmesan

Name: Roasted Broccoli With Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Highlighted under: Lean & Light

I remember the first time I roasted broccoli; it was a game changer! The simple act of roasting transforms this green vegetable into a delicious side dish that everyone loves. With a touch of Parmesan cheese, the flavors intensify, making it a favorite on our dinner table. I enjoy experimenting with various seasonings, but I always come back to this classic recipe. It’s quick to prepare, and the result is a tender, crisp-tender broccoli drizzled with a cheesy topping that adds an irresistible touch. Trust me, you'll want to make this often!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:53:36.818Z

When I first served roasted broccoli to my family, I was nervous about their reaction. However, the moment they took their first bite, I saw their faces light up! The crispy edges and the savory notes of the Parmesan made them realize just how delicious vegetables can be. I think roasting brings out a depth of flavor that boiling or steaming just can’t match.

After making this dish many times, I've learned that the key is to not overcrowd the baking sheet. Spacing the broccoli out allows for even roasting, resulting in the perfect crispy texture. I also like to sprinkle a little garlic powder for an extra flavor boost!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients that let the broccoli shine
Crispy edges with a cheesy finish
Quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive for guests

The Magic of Roasting

Roasting broccoli elevates its natural flavors, creating a delightful contrast between tender stems and crispy, caramelized edges. This technique locks in moisture, providing a satisfying bite. The high temperature of 425°F (220°C) encourages browning through Maillard reaction, which is responsible for that nutty flavor. Keep an eye on the broccoli to prevent overcooking; you want those tips to have a golden hue, not a burnt look.

When preparing broccoli for roasting, consider selecting florets of similar size for even cooking. Cutting larger pieces into smaller ones ensures that everything roasts uniformly, achieving that ideal crispy texture. If you happen to have broken stems or a tough crown, don’t discard them; they can also be roasted. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook through alongside the florets.

Cheese Choices and Variations

Parmesan cheese is a classic for this dish, but you can explore myriad options based on your preferences. Aged Pecorino Romano can add a saltier, sharper flavor, while Asiago gives a creamier finish. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, try nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor profile without the lactose. Adjust the quantity based on the strength of the cheese you choose, sprinkling less if it’s particularly potent.

Feel free to experiment with additional flavors before roasting. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful warmth, while lemon zest brightens the dish. You could also include chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, during the last few minutes of roasting for added crunch and healthy fats. These variations let you customize the recipe to match different cuisines or your personal taste.

Ingredients

Roasted Broccoli Ingredients

1 pound broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Combine these ingredients for a deliciously roasted outcome!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the broccoli roasts perfectly.

Prepare the Broccoli

In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if using, until evenly coated.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the broccoli out in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd them to promote even roasting.

Roast the Broccoli

Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the stems are tender.

Add Parmesan

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Serve warm as a delicious side dish. Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious roasted broccoli!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other toppings like chili flakes or lemon zest for added flavor. You can also experiment with different cheese blends if you want to mix things up.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover roasted broccoli can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it in a hot skillet with a drizzle of olive oil to revive its crispiness. Avoid using the microwave if you desire to maintain that roasted texture; the microwave tends to steam, which can make the broccoli soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze roasted broccoli. Lay the florets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. It will last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, roast from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the edges to crisp up again.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted broccoli with Parmesan serves excellently as a side dish to a variety of mains. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty pasta for a balanced meal. You can also use it as a topping for pizzas or mixed into grain bowls for added nutrition and flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top right before serving brings a bright finish that complements the roasted richness beautifully.

Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an aromatic quality. I often drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the broccoli just before serving, which adds sweet complexity that meshes well with the savory cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

While fresh broccoli gives the best texture, you can use frozen. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before roasting.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts work well. Just adjust roasting times as needed.

→ Is there a vegan alternative to Parmesan?

You can use nutritional yeast as a vegan alternative for a similar cheesy flavor without dairy.