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 lb broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Fit Meals

I've always been a fan of roasted veggies, and this Roasted Broccoli With Parmesan has quickly become one of my go-to side dishes. The combination of crispy edges, tender florets, and the savory notes of grated Parmesan creates a harmony of flavors that delights the palate. It’s simple to prepare and transforms a humble vegetable into a standout dish that can accompany any meal. I love how a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end elevates it further, making it fresh and vibrant.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:29:35.946Z

Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and creates a wonderful texture that’s both crunchy and tender. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was amazed at how easy it was to make such a delicious accompaniment to my meal. I added some Parmesan cheese just before finishing the roasting, and the result was fantastic!

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily tweak the seasonings, add spices, or incorporate other vegetables. I often dust it with a bit of garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor. Serve it warm, and you’ll have a side dish everyone will love!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy, caramelized edges enhance the broccoli's natural sweetness
Rich, nutty flavor from the Parmesan adds depth and richness
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings

The Art of Roasting Broccoli

Roasting broccoli is not just about cooking; it's a transformative technique that brings out the vibrant flavors and textures of this green vegetable. The high heat of 425°F (220°C) caramelizes the natural sugars in the broccoli, leading to that desirable crispy and slightly charred edges. Keep an eye on them around the 15-minute mark; you're looking for a golden color that indicates perfect roasting. The contrast between crispy, darkened tips and tender florets is what makes roasted broccoli so appealing.

To ensure even cooking, it's crucial to spread the broccoli in a single layer on the baking sheet. If the pieces are overcrowded, they will steam rather than roast, resulting in a lackluster dish. For best results, consider using a rimmed baking sheet to capture any oil or juices. If you're roasting larger amounts, you may need to work in batches, allowing the broccoli room to breathe and brown beautifully.

Why Parmesan Makes a Difference

The star ingredient of this recipe is undoubtedly the Parmesan cheese. It not only adds a rich, nutty flavor to the roasted broccoli but also creates a satisfying crispy topping as it melts and bakes into the florets. For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated varieties; it melts better and gives a more robust flavor. Sprinkle it evenly and be generous, but watch closely during the last five minutes of roasting to avoid burning.

If you're looking for a twist, substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. The important thing is to add it near the end of cooking so it has time to melt and adhere to the broccoli without losing its flavor completely. Adding the cheese during the final minutes also allows the broccoli to absorb some of that savory richness, enhancing every bite.

Fresh Finishing Touches

A sprinkle of lemon zest immediately enhances the dish, balancing the richness of the Parmesan with bright, citrus notes. When zesting, use a microplane or fine grater to get just the outer layer of the lemon rind, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This will not only add flavor but also a lovely, aromatic dimension to the dish, making it more dynamic and appealing on the plate.

For added complexity, consider incorporating other herbs or seasonings. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, while fresh thyme or rosemary sprinkled on before serving offers an earthy contrast. These little extras can elevate your roasted broccoli, making it not just a side dish but a centerpiece that sparks conversation at your table.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

1 lb broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Feel free to customize the cheese or add alternative seasonings!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly roasted broccoli.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a hot environment for roasting.

Prepare the Broccoli

In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure even coating.

Roast the Broccoli

Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.

Add the Parmesan

In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the broccoli and continue roasting until golden.

Finish and Serve

Once roasted, remove from oven and zest a lemon over the top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious roasted broccoli as a side or even on its own!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding nuts like almonds or walnuts during the last few minutes of roasting.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover roasted broccoli, it stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture, ensuring it doesn't become soggy. Alternatively, a hot skillet can also revive the broccoli quickly with a splash of olive oil over medium heat.

Freezing roasted broccoli is possible, but it’s best to do so before adding Parmesan. Flash-freeze the cooked broccoli on a baking sheet before transferring it to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw and reheat in the oven, but note that the texture may be softer than when freshly made. It's best used in dishes like soups or casseroles after freezing.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of main courses. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a hearty grain bowl for a balanced meal. Tossing the roasted broccoli with quinoa, chickpeas, and a light vinaigrette can also turn it into a delightful lunch option.

For a complete dinner experience, add a starch like roasted potatoes or couscous to complement the broccoli’s textures. Don’t forget to make it the star of a spread by serving with other roasted vegetables or a mix of green salads to offer a colorful and nourishing meal suitable for any gathering.

Creative Variations

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are many ways to personalize it. You can add sliced garlic cloves to the broccoli before roasting for an aromatic kick, or toss in some cherry tomatoes for an additional burst of flavor and color. If you enjoy a smoky taste, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the oil before tossing it with the broccoli.

For a fun twist, integrate different cheeses based on your palate—feta or goat cheese adds tanginess, while a sprinkle of cheddar before roasting offers a melty comfort. These variations keep the dish fresh each time you prepare it, allowing you to experiment with flavors that suit your family's tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli. Just adjust the roasting time as needed.

→ What other seasonings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with garlic powder, chili flakes, or even Italian herbs to suit your taste.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

It's best to roast the broccoli just before serving for optimal crispiness. However, you can toss it with oil and seasonings beforehand and roast it when ready.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Roasted broccoli keeps well in the fridge for a few days and can be easily reheated.