Cheesy Smashed Broccoli
With a crunchy exterior and soft, cheesy center, Cheesy Smashed Broccoli is a delicious side or snack. Florets are gently smashed, seasoned, roasted, and topped with gooey melted cheese for a flavor-packed twist on ordinary broccoli.
Ingredients
• 1½ pounds fresh broccoli florets (about 4–5 cups)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar/mozzarella/parmesan)
• Optional toppings: ¼ tsp chili flakes, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 2 tbsp crunchy breadcrumbs
Instructions
1. Set your oven to 425 °F (220 °C) and cover a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy roasting.
2. Trim and wash the broccoli florets. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil (or steam), then cook the florets until just tender (about 3-4 minutes). Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
3. Arrange the broccoli on the baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or a spatula, gently flatten each floret until it spreads slightly.
4. Drizzle the olive oil (or melted butter) evenly over the florets. Add a sprinkle of garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top. Stir gently to spread the seasoning evenly across all the pieces.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, until the edges start to turn golden and crisp.
6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Top the broccoli evenly with shredded cheese. Pop it back in the oven for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and melted. Give it 1–2 minutes under the broiler at the end for a golden crust, watching it closely.
7. After taking it out of the oven, finish with chili flakes, lemon zest, or breadcrumbs. Serve right away to enjoy the crisp texture.
Notes
- Keep an eye on the cooking time while boiling or steaming to achieve broccoli that’s tender with a slight crunch.
- Ensure the baking tray is not overcrowded — each floret needs space to crisp.
- Use parchment paper or a non-stick surface to ease cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Mix cheeses for a more complex flavor (for example, cheddar + mozzarella).
- A final broil helps crisp the cheese topping, but watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
- A splash of fresh lemon juice before serving adds a bright, fresh flavor.
- Store the leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Re-crisp them in the oven or air fryer rather than microwaving.