Smashed Broccoli Parmesan – Delicious Side Dish Recipe!

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan is a simple yet flavorful side dish that transforms basic broccoli into a crispy, cheesy masterpiece.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals, this dish combines tender roasted broccoli with a golden, parmesan crust. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and so easy to make! Whether you’re looking to add a veggie-packed side to your table or a creative way to enjoy broccoli, this recipe will not disappoint.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Large mixing bowl
• Potato masher or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup (25g) panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Prepare Broccoli: In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Roast Broccoli: Spread the broccoli onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 15 minutes or until tender.
4. Smash Broccoli: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a potato masher or fork, gently press down on each floret to flatten slightly.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the smashed broccoli with grated parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, if using.
6. Bake Again: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
7. Serve: Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 3g

Expert Tips

• Crispier Texture: For extra crispy broccoli, increase the roasting time by 5 minutes before smashing.
• Cheese Options: Swap parmesan with pecorino romano or asiago for a different flavor profile.
• Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the finished dish for a touch of color and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw and pat the broccoli dry to remove excess moisture before roasting.

What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, steak, or pasta dishes.

Can I make this ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can roast and smash the broccoli in advance, then reheat and add the toppings before serving.

Storing & Reheating

• Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Substitutions & Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a vegan alternative.
• Breadcrumb-Free: Skip the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan - Delicious Side Dish Recipe!

Smashed Broccoli Parmesan is a simple yet flavorful side dish that transforms basic broccoli into a crispy, cheesy masterpiece. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals, this dish combines tender roasted broccoli with a golden, parmesan crust.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• - Baking sheet
• - Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• - Large mixing bowl
• - Potato masher or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• - 1 lb 450g broccoli florets
• - 2 tbsp olive oil
• - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• - 1/4 tsp salt
• - 1/4 tsp black pepper
• - 1/2 cup 50g grated parmesan cheese
• - 1/4 cup 25g panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
• - Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

 

• **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
• **Prepare Broccoli:** In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
• **Roast Broccoli:** Spread the broccoli onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 15 minutes or until tender.
• **Smash Broccoli:** Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a potato masher or fork, gently press down on each floret to flatten slightly.
• **Add Toppings:** Sprinkle the smashed broccoli with grated parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, if using.
• **Bake Again:** Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
• **Serve:** Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.