Oven Parmesan Smashed Broccoli

Oven Parmesan Smashed Broccoli is a delicious and healthy side dish that combines the tender-crisp texture of roasted broccoli with the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The smashing technique ensures that the broccoli gets maximum exposure to the heat, creating crispy edges and a delightful flavor. Let’s get started on this tasty dish!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds of fresh broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Set the Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps achieve the crispy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

1. Wash and Dry: Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and dry them with a kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure they roast properly.
2. Cut the Florets: Cut the broccoli into uniform-sized florets to ensure even cooking. If some florets are larger, cut them in half.

Step 3: Season the Broccoli

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the florets are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
2. Add Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes and mix well.

Step 4: Roast the Broccoli

1. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned broccoli florets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Ensure there is enough space between the florets for even roasting.
2. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the edges are starting to brown.

Step 5: Smash the Broccoli

1. Smash the Florets: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use the back of a fork or a potato masher to gently smash each broccoli floret to flatten it slightly. This increases the surface area for crispiness.
2. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the smashed broccoli.

Step 6: Final Roast

1. Return to Oven: Place the baking sheet back in the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese is melted and golden brown.
2. Check for Crispiness: Ensure the edges of the broccoli are crispy and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 7: Serve

1. Plate and Enjoy: Transfer the Parmesan smashed broccoli to a serving platter. Serve hot and enjoy this crispy, flavorful side dish.
2. Optional Garnish: For extra flavor, you can garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Cooking Notes

• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best for this recipe, but you can use frozen broccoli if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before roasting.
• Cheese: For a more intense flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese can have additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Olive Oil: Ensure the broccoli is well-coated with olive oil to help it roast properly and develop crispy edges.

Variations

• Cheesy Smashed Broccoli: Add ¼ cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese along with the Parmesan for an extra cheesy version.
• Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic powder to 1 teaspoon or add 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix for an herby twist.

Keto Version

This recipe is already keto-friendly, as it uses low-carb ingredients like broccoli and Parmesan cheese. Ensure you use a high-quality olive oil and fresh cheese to keep it keto-compliant.

Low Carb Version

This dish is perfect for a low-carb diet. Serve it with a protein like grilled chicken or steak for a complete low-carb meal.

Oven Parmesan Smashed Broccoli is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the best in broccoli. The combination of roasting and smashing creates a delightful texture, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized with different seasonings and cheeses to suit your taste. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish with family and friends, and savor the crispy, cheesy goodness of Oven Parmesan Smashed Broccoli. Happy cooking!