This crispy, cheesy adventure is perfect for your next dinner party, or just a regular (but delicious) weeknight meal.
This dish is a family favorite, delivering a combination of crispy roasted broccoli with a melty cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheese topping. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that will leave your guests (and, yes, you!) wanting more, and more, and more. With a few tips and tricks for achieving that perfect crispy texture, you’ll be collecting “OMG Points” from everyone around your table in no time.
Tips for Crispiness and Flavor
To make the broccoli even crispier and more delicious, try these tips:
– Use panko breadcrumbs for a better texture.
– Thoroughly dry the broccoli after boiling and cooling to keep it crispy.
– Don’t overcrowd the roasting sheet to prevent steaming.
– Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best results. 
Recipe Notes
– While fresh broccoli works best for roasting, frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch.
– Remember to keep an eye on the cheese while broiling to avoid burning.
Crispy Cheesy Broccoli
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Crispy broccoli florets tossed in a cheesy panko crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side.
Ingredients
- 1 large head broccoli
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 0.5 cups (118 ml) panko bread crumbs
- 1.5 cups (355 ml) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cups (118 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (227°C). Place a large, rimmed sheet pan on the middle rack.
- Bring a large pot of water with 1 tsp salt to a boil. Meanwhile, prepare an ice bath.
- Boil broccoli florets for 2 minutes. Quickly transfer to the ice bath for 2 minutes, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- Toss broccoli with olive oil, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Combine melted butter, panko crumbs, cheddar, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl.
- Spread broccoli on the preheated sheet pan.
- Broil for 4 minutes.
- Sprinkle breadcrumb/cheese mixture over broccoli, then broil for an additional 3-5 minutes or until fork-tender and crispy.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For optimal crispiness, ensure broccoli florets are thoroughly dried after blanching and before oiling.
- To make this recipe vegan, substitute nutritional yeast for the cheeses and use vegan butter.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 20
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I achieve the perfect crispy texture for the broccoli?
To achieve the perfect crispy texture, make sure to thoroughly dry the broccoli after boiling and cooling, use panko breadcrumbs, and avoid overcrowding the roasting sheet.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with melty cheddar will give you the best flavor and texture for the cheesy topping.
How can I prevent the cheese from burning while broiling?
Keep a close eye on the cheese while broiling, as it can burn quickly; you may want to check it every minute or so until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
