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Ultimate Crispy Parmesan Smashed Broccoli

Close-up of perfectly roasted and crispy smashed broccoli with a golden, cheesy crust served on a white plate.
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Make this addictive, crispy Parmesan smashed broccoli side dish. You cook the florets, smash them flat, and roast them until the edges are golden and crunchy. It is a simple, flavorful way to serve vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large heads broccoli, cut into medium florets
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2 minutes. Immediately drain the broccoli and plunge it into an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain well and pat the florets completely dry with paper towels.
  3. Place the dried broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly.
  4. Use the bottom of a sturdy glass or a flat spatula to gently smash each floret until it is flattened, about 1/2 inch thick. Do not crush them into mush; you want them mostly intact with crispy edges forming.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes.
  6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the smashed broccoli.
  7. Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the broccoli edges are deeply golden brown and crispy.
  8. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish for dinner.

Notes

  • Drying the broccoli thoroughly after blanching is key to achieving maximum crispness in the oven.
  • If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or add 1 clove of minced fresh garlic tossed with the oil before smashing.
  • This recipe works well with other sturdy vegetables like cauliflower if you want to mix it up.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gourmetgaze.com/smashed-broccoli-crispy-parmesan-side-dish/