Crispy Parmesan Broccoli Recipe
If you think broccoli is boring, you just haven’t roasted it yet! This Oven Roasted Parmesan Broccoli is crispy on the edges, and tender inside, with a flavor that’ll make even veggie skeptics go back for seconds. It’s quick, easy, and proof that simple ingredients can make magic happen.
In culinary school, one of the biggest takeaways I learned was that roasting is the secret to truly flavorful vegetables. It concentrates their natural sweetness and gives you those irresistible golden, crispy bits. Broccoli especially loves the high heat, and it turns beautifully charred and caramelized at the edges while staying perfectly tender in the middle.
The Parmesan here just takes it to the next level. As it roasts, it melts and crisps up, forming little cheesy crusts that cling to every floret. Combined with a hint of garlic and herbs, this parmesan broccoli recipe is the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight. Minimal effort, maximum flavor!
Ingredients You Need
- Broccoli: One small head, cut into even-sized florets so they roast evenly.
- Olive oil: Helps the broccoli crisp up and helps the seasonings and parm stick!
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering the broccoli.
- Dried parsley: Brings a pop of herby flavor.
- Salt: Add more to taste!
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts and crisps in the oven, adding that irresistible umami crunch.
Substitutions & Variations
- Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano or Asiago for a slightly sharper flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: A quick drizzle of fresh lemon juice after roasting brightens everything up. You can also add lemon zest if you prefer.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some spice.
- Add breadcrumbs: Toss in a tablespoon of panko for even more crunch.
How to Make Parmesan Broccoli in the Oven
For the full list of ingredients and instructions, click here.- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prep the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into even-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Season: Drizzle the olive oil over the broccoli, then sprinkle with garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt. Add in the parmesan cheese. Toss well until all the florets are evenly coated.
- Roast: Spread the broccoli out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 18–20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the edges are crispy and golden.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot and crispy. It’s perfect as a side dish for chicken, fish, or pasta!
Tips for Roasting the BEST Broccoli
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the florets space! Too close together and they’ll steam instead of roast.
- Use high heat. 400°F to 425°F is ideal for getting those crispy, caramelized edges.
- I always use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt and crisp the same way, so I recommend shredding it from a block if you can.
What to Serve with Parmesan Broccoli
This parmesan broccoli is one of those sides that goes with just about everything. It’s a perfect companion to weeknight dinners like pesto-marinated chicken, air fryer salmon bites, or air fryer steak bites, but it also holds its own alongside vegetarian mains.
Try it with my marry me chickpeas for a balanced, cozy meal that’s full of flavor, or serve it with my salmon couscous bowls for something light yet satisfying. It’s also great tucked into grain bowls or paired with pesto pasta. No matter how you plate it, this crispy, cheesy broccoli adds a delicious touch to any meal!
Parmesan Broccoli FAQs
I recommend using fresh broccoli here if you can. You can use frozen broccoli if you need to, but don’t let it thaw. Toss it with the other ingredients frozen and roast it for a little bit longer. Unfortunately, it won’t get as crispy and charred as fresh broccoli.
For the crispiest parmesan roasted broccoli, make sure it’s completely dry before roasting and avoid overcrowding the pan. If you want to reheat leftovers, pop them back into a 400°F oven or air fryer for a few minutes to revive that crisp texture.
You can, but freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt and crisp up much better. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting.
Definitely. Air fry the broccoli at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the broccoli is crispy and browned.
More Recipes to Try
Oven-Roasted Parmesan Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prep the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into even-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Season: Drizzle the olive oil over the broccoli, then sprinkle with garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt. Add in the parmesan cheese. Toss well until all the florets are evenly coated.
- Roast: Spread the broccoli out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 18–20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the edges are crispy and golden.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot and crispy. It’s perfect as a side dish for chicken, fish, or pasta!
