Description

Crispy Smashed Broccoli is a deliciously tender yet crunchy side dish made by boiling broccoli until tender, smashing it to increase the surface area for crispiness, and then baking it with a garlic butter sauce and Parmesan cheese until golden and crispy. This recipe offers a flavorful way to enjoy broccoli with a perfect balance of softness inside and crisp edges, ideal for a healthy snack or a savory side.

Ingredients

Scale

Broccoli

1 large head broccoli (or 2 medium)

Sauce

2 tablespoons butter (melted)
1-2 garlic cloves (finely minced)
½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
3-4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon juice (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425℉ to prepare for baking the broccoli.
Boil the Broccoli: Bring a large pot or Dutch oven filled two-thirds with water to a boil. Add the whole head of broccoli, florets facing down, and boil for 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender. Carefully remove and drain in a colander.
Smash the Broccoli: After cooling so you can handle it, cut the broccoli into 1 to 2-inch florets. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place florets spaced at least 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Smash each floret with the bottom of a flat glass or jar until they’re about ¼ to ½ inch thick for the best crispiness without breaking them apart.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Brush this garlic butter mixture evenly over the smashed florets, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake and Serve: Bake the prepared broccoli in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until the edges turn crispy and the cheese browns slightly. Serve warm with an optional squeeze of lemon juice and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Removing excess water from the broccoli ensures better crispiness when baked.
Smashing the florets increases surface area for a delightful crunch.
Adjust garlic and Parmesan cheese amounts to taste for more intense flavor.
Use lemon juice for a fresh, bright finishing touch that complements the richness of butter and cheese.
Cooking time may vary slightly depending on oven; keep an eye on broccoli to avoid burning.