This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe You’ll Love

When it comes to easy weeknight dinners that also feel a bit fancy, this Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe hits the spot perfectly. Picture this: bright, fresh broccoli that’s lovingly roasted to crispy perfection, showered in a glorious mix of gooey cheddar and savory Parmesan. I mean, who wouldn’t be tempted by that?

The best part? This delightful dish isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it tantalizes your taste buds too! You’ll find yourself asking if broccoli really can be this delicious—spoiler alert: it absolutely can, especially when cheese is involved. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to accompany your main course or a standout snack to graze on, this recipe is the answer to your culinary prayers!

Ingredients for This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe:

1 head broccoli – Cut into florets with 1-inch stems; fresh broccoli is key to achieving that crunchy texture.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – A quality olive oil enhances the flavor and helps crisp the broccoli during roasting.
2 teaspoons kosher salt divided – Helps draw out moisture while seasoning your broccoli perfectly.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted – Creates a rich, decadent topping for the cheese and breadcrumbs.
1/3 cup panko bread crumbs – For that irresistible crunchy topping that takes this dish to the next level.
1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese – Provides gooey deliciousness with a punch of flavor.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Balances the sharpness of Cheddar with a nutty undertone.
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Just a hint of heat to keep things interesting.

How to Make This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Make sure to place a large, rimmed sheet pan on the middle rack. This pan will help achieve that perfect roast.

Step 2: Boil the Broccoli
Bring a large pot of water along with 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Rinse your beautiful broccoli and cut it into florets. When your water is bubbling like a hot spring, boil the broccoli florets for just 2 minutes. Trust me, this quick dip makes a huge difference in texture.

Step 3: Ice Bath
Prepare a large bowl of ice water next to your stove and have a slotted spoon ready. After boiling, quickly transfer the broccoli to the ice bath to stop the cooking process—it’s like a spa day for your veggies. Leave it there for about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Dry the Broccoli
Retrieve the broccoli from its icy oasis and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Gently pat it dry with another paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps to achieve crispening perfection later on!

Step 5: Season and Spread
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli with olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture will help in roasting the broccoli to crispy bliss. Make sure to toss everything expertly, so each floret is coated evenly. Carefully remove that hot pan from your oven and arrange the seasoned broccoli in a single layer.

Step 6: Broil
Set your oven to broil. Place the pan with the broccoli back in the oven and broil it for about 4 minutes. This flash of heat will start to caramelize the edges beautifully.

Step 7: Prepare the Cheese Topping
While the broccoli is broiling, grab a medium bowl to mix together the melted butter, panko crumbs, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes. This colorful and flavorful topping is about to take your broccoli to dizzying heights.

Step 8: Add Topping and Final Broil
Remove your pan from the oven, and sprinkle the luscious breadcrumb and cheese mixture evenly over the broccoli. Return the pan to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, keeping a watchful eye. You want the broccoli to be fork-tender and the cheese to turn golden and crispy without any unfortunate burning.

Final Step: Serve
Once you’ve achieved that glorious golden-brown topping, it’s time to serve! Transfer the crispy cheesy roasted broccoli to a plate and dig in immediately. Your taste buds will thank you.

Whether it’s a side dish at dinner, a quick lunch, or even a late-night snack, this Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy this treat, and don’t be surprised if everyone is asking for seconds!

Perfecting This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and getting your pot of water boiling while prepping the broccoli. Once you blanch the florets, toss them with seasonings before broiling them to achieve that irresistible crispiness.

Add Your Touch to This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe

Feel free to swap the Cheddar for a gooey Gruyere or Pepper Jack, or add some garlic powder and lemon zest for an extra flavor dimension. Customize this recipe to match what you enjoy the most!

Storing & Reheating This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispy texture rather than using the microwave, which may make it soggy.

Sharing this dish with friends at a potluck brought the house down. Everyone kept asking for the secret to that crunch and melty cheese combo—a testament to its incredible taste!

FAQs About This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe

What is This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe?

This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe transforms the humble broccoli into a spectacular dish that everyone will love. By roasting and broiling, you achieve perfectly crispy edges along with melty, gooey cheese. This dish is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, making it an excellent side for any meal! Its vibrant colors and delightful textures not only please the palate but also make it visually appealing for your dinner table.

Can I customize This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe?

Absolutely! One of the beauties of This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe is its versatility. Swap out the cheddar cheese for Gruyere or Pepper Jack for an extra kick. You can also enhance the flavors by adding garlic powder, fresh herbs, or a spritz of lemon juice. This way, you can make it a reflection of your personal tastes, ensuring that every bite is tailored just for you!

How can I store leftovers from This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe?

To keep your leftovers from This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish again, reheat it in the oven instead of the microwave. This method helps maintain that crispy texture that makes this recipe so delicious, avoiding the sogginess that microwaving can cause.

Is This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe healthy?

Yes, This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe is a nutritious choice! Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and fiber. By roasting it with a bit of olive oil and cheese, you’re adding flavor without sacrificing health. Just be mindful of the salt and butter content, and you’ll enjoy a delicious yet wholesome side dish that supports a balanced diet.

Conclusion for This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe

In conclusion, This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe is not just a simple side dish; it’s a culinary experience that will elevate your mealtime. With its wonderful blend of textures and exquisite flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether served at a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe showcases the delightful potential of broccoli. Try it out and enjoy the deliciousness it brings to your table!

This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe

This Quick Crispy Cheese Baked Broccoli Recipe transforms broccoli into a delicious dish everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 325.09

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 1 head broccoli cut into florets with 1-inch stems attached
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt divided
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Equipment

• large pot
• Rimmed Sheet Pan
• Slotted spoon
• mixing bowl

Method

 

1. Heat oven to 450°F and set a large, rimmed sheet pan on the middle rack in the oven.
2. Bring a large pot of water and 1 teaspoon salt to boil.
3. Rinse and cut the broccoli into florets.
4. Fill a large mixing bowl with ice water and set it next to the stove.
5. Boil the broccoli florets in the water for 2 minutes.
6. Use a slotted spoon to submerge the broccoli in the ice water to cool for 2 minutes.
7. Transfer the broccoli to a paper towel-lined plate to dry and pat dry with another paper towel.
8. In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli, olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
9. Remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and spread the broccoli mixture evenly over the pan.
10. Set the oven to broil and return the pan with the broccoli to the oven. Broil the broccoli for 4 minutes.
11. In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, panko crumbs, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes.
12. Remove the pan from the oven, and sprinkle the breadcrumb/cheese mixture evenly over the top of the broccoli.
13. Return the broccoli to the oven and broil another 3-5 minutes or until the broccoli is fork-tender, and the cheese has melted and is crispy around the edges. Watch closely to prevent burning.
14. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 325.09kcalCarbohydrates: 14.5gProtein: 14.49gFat: 24.67gCholesterol: 50.21mgSodium: 1522.48mgPotassium: 517.8mgFiber: 4.24gSugar: 3.11gVitamin A: 1477.55IUVitamin C: 135.59mgCalcium: 353.59mgIron: 1.6mg

Notes

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Customize the cheese as desired.

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