Are you tired of serving the same old boring broccoli every time? Look no further! We’ve got 20 delicious and simple broccoli side dish recipes to spice up your meals. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, we’ve got a recipe for everyone. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight dinners or a foodie seeking new inspiration, these flavorful broccoli dishes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll explore the versatility of broccoli and show you how to bring out its natural sweetness and depth with a variety of seasonings, cheeses, and cooking methods. From the familiar taste of garlic roasted broccoli to the bold flavors of honey sriracha glazed broccoli, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the best of this beloved green veggie.
Garlic Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of broccoli with the pungency of garlic and the richness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together broccoli, garlic, and olive oil until the broccoli is evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the broccoli mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the broccoli is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 17-23 minutes
Lemon Butter Sautéed Broccoli
This bright and citrusy side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. With just a few ingredients, you can elevate broccoli from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. Remove the broccoli from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Return the broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon butter sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the broccoli is evenly coated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
This classic casserole is a comforting blend of steamed broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy crackers. A simple yet satisfying side dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Steam broccoli until tender; set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in grated cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange steamed broccoli in an even layer.
6. Pour cheesy sauce over the broccoli, making sure to cover the entire surface.
7. Sprinkle crushed crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Bacon Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of broccoli with the smoky goodness of bacon, all in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, and vegetable oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
4. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or oyster sauce.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Broccoli
Elevate your vegetable game with this sweet and spicy twist on traditional broccoli. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of honey with the bold heat of sriracha, creating a glaze that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli (about 4 cups)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the broccoli under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, and olive oil until well combined.
4. Place the broccoli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the glaze over the broccoli, making sure to coat evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Almondine with Toasted Almonds
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the earthy taste of broccoli with the crunch and richness of toasted almonds. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small skillet, toast almonds over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
5. Remove broccoli from the oven and toss with garlic, vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Top broccoli with toasted almonds and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots
Transform broccoli into a deliciously crispy snack with these easy-to-make tots. Perfect as a healthy side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, florets only
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the broccoli florets and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, toss the broccoli with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the broccoli mixture in small clusters, leaving space between each tot.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Slaw with Tangy Dressing
Add some crunch and flavor to your meals with this refreshing broccoli slaw recipe, perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or salads. With a tangy dressing made from Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard, this slaw is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli and red cabbage.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is a quick and easy preparation, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. A perfect blend of earthy flavors and creamy texture, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 head of broccoli, florets only
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, sauté broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until tender.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the broccoli mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sesame Broccoli Stir-Fry
Get ready to kick up your stir-fry game with this bold and flavorful recipe! This Spicy Sesame Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and easy way to get your daily dose of greens while satisfying your cravings for something spicy and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli, trimmed into florets
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add broccoli and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the broccoli and stir to coat.
4. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin
Elevate your vegetable game with this rich and comforting gratin, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce, all wrapped up in a golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the broccoli and cauliflower in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
5. Add the cooked vegetables, cream, salt, and pepper to the baking dish.
6. Top with the cheese mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Steamed Broccoli
Elevate your broccoli game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of steaming with the richness of garlic butter. This side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite proteins or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli (about 3-4 cups)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the broccoli under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the broccoli in a single layer.
3. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Steam the broccoli for 5-7 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
5. Remove the broccoli from the steamer and brush with the garlic butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Broccoli and Feta Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of broccoli and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 head of broccoli, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in feta cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Stuff each pepper with the broccoli-feta mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Broccoli with Balsamic Glaze
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted broccoli with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, creating a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the glaze thickens slightly.
4. Remove broccoli from the oven and toss with the warm balsamic glaze.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Broccoli and Bacon Salad
This salad combines the earthy flavor of broccoli with the smoky goodness of bacon, all tied together with a rich and creamy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli and crumbled bacon.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Quiche
A classic brunch option that’s perfect for any occasion. This quiche is filled with steamed broccoli, melted cheddar cheese, and a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups steamed broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 3 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange steamed broccoli florets on the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the broccoli.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and broccoli.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of broccoli, pesto, and linguine for a light and satisfying meal or side dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli florets until tender. Drain and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, pesto, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Broccoli and Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo
This Mediterranean-inspired orzo dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the earthy taste of broccoli, the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the orzo and water to a boil in a large saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cooked orzo. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Broccoli and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the goodness of broccoli and chickpeas with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add broccoli and chickpeas. Stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
5. Pour in coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Broccoli with Lemon Garlic Aioli
Elevate a classic side dish with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon and the richness of garlic aioli. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss broccoli with salt and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl.
5. Once broccoli is done, toss it with the aioli mixture to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering broccoli side dish recipes that are sure to impress! From classic garlic roasted broccoli with parmesan to innovative stir-fries and casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Elevate your meals with honey sriracha glazed broccoli, crispy baked broccoli tots, or creamy broccoli and bacon salad. Impress friends and family with cheesy broccoli casserole, broccolini stuffed mushrooms, or roasted broccoli with balsamic glaze. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a foodie looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.