Roasting broccoli completely transforms this everyday vegetable. The florets develop incredible crispy, golden edges while staying perfectly tender inside. Now I find myself making this simple recipe at least twice a week because it’s honestly that good.
Whether I’m preparing a weeknight dinner, hosting a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this roasted broccoli always delivers. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and a bright finish of lemon juice turns ordinary broccoli into something I actually crave.
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Oven Roasted Broccoli
This roasted broccoli recipe has become my go-to side dish because it delivers on both flavor and simplicity. The high heat creates those coveted caramelized edges that make even broccoli skeptics come back for seconds.
I love how versatile it is – perfect alongside grilled meats for summer barbecues, elegant enough for holiday dinners, or simple enough for busy Tuesday nights. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or impressing dinner guests, this recipe works every time.
What You’ll Need to Cook
- Fresh Broccoli
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Kosher salt
- Fresh lemon juice – Essential for brightening the finished dish and balancing the rich, caramelized flavors. Use freshly squeezed juice rather than bottled for the best acidic punch that cuts through the olive oil.
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Parmesan cheese
Ingredient Substitutes
Olive oil alternatives: Avocado oil is a suitable alternative for high-heat roasting, offering a neutral flavor profile. Melted butter can be used for richer taste but may brown faster at high temperatures.
Garlic Powder Substitute: Use one teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute for fresh garlic, if needed. Mix it directly with the oil before tossing to ensure even distribution across all florets.
How to Make Roasted Broccoli
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven
Start by positioning your oven rack in the center and preheating to 425°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving proper caramelization without burning the delicate floret tips. Place a wire cooling rack on top of a large rimmed baking sheet to allow air circulation underneath the broccoli during cooking.
The elevated rack setup promotes even browning on all surfaces and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. This technique ensures maximum crispiness while maintaining tender interiors throughout each piece.
Step 2: Cut and Season the Broccoli
Cut the heads into uniform florets, approximately 1-2 inches in size for even cooking. Don’t discard the stems – peel away the tough outer layer and slice them into thin rounds.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets and stem pieces with oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together until each piece is evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
Spread the seasoned broccoli across the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring pieces don’t touch or overlap. The elevated rack allows hot air to circulate completely around each piece, creating superior browning and preventing any soggy bottoms that can occur with direct pan contact.
Step 3: Cook
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 18-22 minutes, checking after 15 minutes. The broccoli is done when the edges are golden brown and crispy, and the stems can be pierced easily with a fork.
Look for those beautiful caramelized edges that indicate proper Maillard reaction development. The florets should maintain some bright green color while developing those coveted crispy, almost charred tips.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the broccoli from the oven and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice while still hot. The acid brightens the rich, nutty flavors developed during roasting. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, allowing it to melt slightly from the residual heat.
Serve immediately while the edges are still crispy and the interior remains tender. The contrast in textures is what makes this simple preparation so appealing and satisfying.
How To Store Leftovers and Reheat
Allow roasted broccoli to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers for refrigeration. Properly stored, it will maintain quality for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
To reheat, spread leftovers on a baking sheet and warm in a 400°F oven for 5-8 minutes until heated through and edges re-crisp. Avoid microwaving as it makes the broccoli soggy and eliminates the desirable texture contrast.
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What to Serve With Broccoli 🥦
- 🍖 Oven Roasted Pork Butt
- 🥩 Oven Baked Tri-Tip
- 🍗 Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- 🍗 Baked Chicken Breasts
- 🍖 Oven Baked Burgers
- 🥩 Baked Meatloaf
Roasted Broccoli
Ingredients
- 2 whole large heads of broccoli about 2 lbs
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut broccoli into uniform florets, about 1-2 inches in size. Peel and slice stems into thin rounds.
- Toss broccoli florets and stems with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl.
- Spread broccoli in single layer on prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces don’t overlap.
- Roast for 18-22 minutes until edges are crispy and stems are tender when pierced with fork.
- Remove from oven and immediately drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan if using.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Author: Charlie Reeves
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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