If you’re looking for a vegetable side dish that delivers big, cheesy flavor and gets requested absolutely every time broccoli is on the menu, Parmesan Roasted Broccoli is the one. This recipe transforms everyday broccoli florets into golden, crisp-tender bites, coated in a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb crust you’ll find yourself “tasting” straight off the pan. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight or alongside a special dinner, this easy, crowd-pleasing favorite will have everyone reaching for seconds (and begging for you to make it again).
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of simple ingredients come together to make Parmesan Roasted Broccoli so addictive. Each element brings something: a nutty richness, a hit of savoriness, a crispy golden finish, or just the perfect green freshness that broccoli is so famous for. Here’s why you’ll want every piece in the mix:
- Fresh broccoli florets: For best results, cut your florets into similar sizes so they all roast evenly and get those irresistible crispy edges.
- Olive oil: This is the magic that helps the seasoning stick and gives your broccoli that deep golden roast—don’t skimp!
- Italian style breadcrumbs: Brings crunch, herby flavor, and a toasty bite no one can resist.
- Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Fresh shredding makes it melt better and taste dramatically better than the pre-grated stuff.
- Garlic powder: Just a touch adds a mellow, savory spark—no chopping required.
- Salt: Essential for rounding out the flavors and making those savory notes pop.
- Black pepper: Just a pinch of pepper brings a subtle warmth that lifts the whole dish.
How to Make Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Step 1: Heat and Prep
Set your oven to 425 degrees F and let it get good and hot while you prep. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat it with nonstick spray—this not only guarantees easy cleanup, but also encourages every bit of that crunchy coating to stay right where you want it: on the broccoli!
Step 2: Toss the Broccoli
Add your broccoli florets and olive oil to a large zip-close bag. Then, give it a good shake until every piece is glistening. This step is more fun than you’d think, and it ensures each floret is evenly coated so every bite roasts up beautifully.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Crunch
Time for the good stuff—sprinkle in the Italian breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Zip the bag shut again and shake vigorously! Then, gently massage everything through the bag to help all those savory flavors stick to every nook and cranny of the broccoli.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Pour the coated broccoli out onto your prepared baking sheet, spreading it in an even layer. Don’t forget to scoop up any extra cheesy-breadcrumb mixture from the bottom of the bag and sprinkle it over the top. Roast for about 12 minutes and then give the broccoli a quick toss and flip. Pop it back in for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is crisp-tender with delicious golden edges.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Serve your Parmesan Roasted Broccoli hot, straight from the pan. The sizzling, toasty aroma and golden cheese crust will be impossible to resist.
How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Garnishes
Give this dish an extra finish by sprinkling a little more fresh Parmesan on top as soon as it comes out of the oven. A squeeze of lemon brings a vibrant zing that really makes the flavors pop. If you’re feeling fancy, a scatter of chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes also looks stunning and adds a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
Parmesan Roasted Broccoli pairs beautifully with so many main courses. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a juicy steak. It’s also lovely with pasta dishes, especially creamy Alfredo or garlicky spaghetti, where the crispiness of the broccoli adds wonderful contrast to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
This isn’t just a side—you can tuck crispy Parmesan Roasted Broccoli into grain bowls, toss it with cooked pasta or farro, or even pile it onto a pizza before the final bake. For a fun twist, sprinkle over a few pine nuts or use as a topping for baked potatoes. The options are endless and the broccoli stays the star!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Parmesan Roasted Broccoli left (which is rare!), let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days, and it makes a fabulous snack or addition to salads and lunch bowls the next day.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, keep in mind that the texture will change and become much softer after thawing. Spread the cooled broccoli florets on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to a month. For best crispy results, make it fresh when you can!
Reheating
To bring back some of that original crispness, reheat Parmesan Roasted Broccoli in a hot oven or air fryer for just a few minutes. A quick toss on a skillet works too. The microwave is speedy but will make it soft, so use the oven when possible for texture that’s closest to just-baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but it’s best to thaw and pat it very dry first. Frozen broccoli can release extra moisture, which may make the coating less crisp. Fresh is best for that classic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli texture!
Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan instead of freshly shredded?
Pre-grated works in a pinch, but freshly shredded Parmesan gives much better flavor and melt. It really does make a difference in the final dish, so if you have the time, grate it fresh for the best Parmesan Roasted Broccoli.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Just swap the Italian style breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs, or use crushed gluten-free crackers seasoned with a little Italian seasoning. The recipe will stay just as delicious and crowd-pleasing!
What other seasonings can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or even a little Italian herb blend all play well with the main flavors of Parmesan Roasted Broccoli. Adjust the seasonings to make it your own.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Absolutely! Use two baking sheets and rotate them midway through roasting so all the broccoli gets that perfect color and crunch. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli is every bit as popular at parties as it is at family dinners.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a go-to way to make eating veggies fun, flavorful, and practically addictive, Parmesan Roasted Broccoli will definitely earn a spot in your regular rotation. Give it a shot and watch it disappear—there’s a good chance it’ll become your new favorite, too!
PrintParmesan Roasted Broccoli Recipe
Parmesan Roasted Broccoli is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Fresh broccoli florets are coated in a flavorful mixture of olive oil, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and seasonings, then roasted to crispy perfection.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Fresh Broccoli Florets:
6 to 7 cups
Olive Oil:
3 to 4 tbsp
Italian Style Breadcrumbs:
1/4 cup
Freshly Shredded Parmesan Cheese:
1/2 cup
Garlic Powder:
1 tsp
Salt:
1/2 tsp
Black Pepper:
1/4 tsp
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil and coat it with non-stick spray.
- Coat the Broccoli: In a large zip-close bag, combine the broccoli and olive oil. Add breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bag. Shake well to coat.
- Bake: Spread the coated broccoli on the baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes, then stir and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Serve: Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Roasted Broccoli!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 145 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 391mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 6mg
