Roasted Broccoli Recipe – Garlic Butter & Perfect Crispy Edges

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Roasted Broccoli Recipe – Garlic Butter & Perfect Crispy Edges

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, getting your greens in can sometimes feel like a chore. But trust me, this roasted broccoli recipe is a total game-changer. It’s so simple, so flavorful, and honestly? It makes broccoli exciting. I first made this when I was trying to convince my picky little cousin that vegetables weren’t the enemy, and it worked like a charm! Now, it’s a regular side dish in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average steamed broccoli. Roasting brings out a natural sweetness, and the garlic butter… oh, the garlic butter! It’s crispy, flavorful, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – perfect with everything from dal and rice to a simple chicken curry. It’s a quick and easy way to add a healthy and delicious side to any meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 1 medium broccoli
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon grated garlic
• Salt to taste
• 0.5 teaspoon cracked pepper

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Olive Oil: I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, but any good quality olive oil will work. It really helps the broccoli get nice and crispy. You could use another oil, like avocado oil, but olive oil just has that special something, don’t you think?
• Butter: Don’t skimp on the butter! A good quality butter adds so much richness. I usually use salted butter, but unsalted works too – just adjust the salt accordingly.
• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper is a must. It has a much more vibrant flavor than pre-ground. If you like a little extra kick, you can even use a mix of black and white pepper.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously easy.

1. First, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) for about 10 minutes. This ensures everything is nice and hot when the broccoli goes in.
2. While the oven heats up, cut the broccoli into florets. Give them a good rinse and pat them completely dry. This is super important – wet broccoli will steam instead of roast!
3. In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, melted butter, grated garlic, salt, and cracked pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated. Get in there with your hands – it’s the best way!
4. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Spread the broccoli in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. Overcrowding leads to steaming, and we want crispy!
5. Bake for 15 minutes. Then, switch the oven to grill/broil mode for the last 2 minutes to get those edges beautifully browned and crispy. Keep a close eye on it during the broiling stage – it can burn quickly!
6. Remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot. Seriously, don’t let it sit!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t Overcrowd: Seriously, give the broccoli space!
• Dry Broccoli is Key: Patting it dry is non-negotiable.
• High Heat is Your Friend: Roasting at a high temperature is what creates that lovely crispiness.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: Mild to Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. My friend, Priya, loves to add a full teaspoon!
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the butter for a vegan butter substitute. It works beautifully!
• Air Fryer Adaptation: You can absolutely make this in an air fryer! Cook at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted broccoli is amazing with so many things!

• Serve it alongside your favorite Indian curries – it’s especially good with a rich butter chicken or a spicy vindaloo.
• It’s also fantastic with grilled fish or chicken.
• Or, just enjoy it as a healthy and flavorful snack!

Storage Instructions

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain some of the crispiness. It won’t be quite as good as the first time, but still delicious!

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Is this broccoli recipe healthy? Absolutely! Broccoli is packed with vitamins and fiber. Roasting it with olive oil and garlic adds healthy fats and flavor.
• Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe? You can, but it won’t get as crispy. Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry before roasting.
• How do I prevent the broccoli from steaming instead of roasting? Make sure your oven is hot enough, don’t overcrowd the baking tray, and pat the broccoli completely dry.
• What’s the best way to grate fresh garlic? A microplane is your best friend! It creates a super fine garlic paste that distributes flavor evenly.
• Can I add other vegetables to roast alongside the broccoli? Definitely! Bell peppers, carrots, and Brussels sprouts all roast well with broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.