Marry Me Broccoli Recipe

Introduction

Marry Me Broccoli is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that transforms simple broccoli into a cheesy, flavorful delight. Roasted to perfection and topped with garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, and a hint of lemon, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the broccoli.
2. Step 2: Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and let them dry. Trim any excess stems if necessary.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
4. Step 4: Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss them in the olive oil mixture until evenly coated.
5. Step 5: Spread the coated broccoli evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to ensure even cooking.
6. Step 6: Roast the broccoli in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until tender and slightly browned.
7. Step 7: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the broccoli.
8. Step 8: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the dish for added brightness.
10. Step 10: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh, vibrant green broccoli for the best taste and texture.
• Adjust garlic and lemon juice quantities to suit your flavor preferences.
• Try different cheeses like cheddar or feta to vary the flavor.
• Add a crunchy element by sprinkling chopped walnuts or almonds just before serving.
• Serve with dips like ranch, hummus, or spicy sriracha mayo for extra fun.
• Variation: Add crispy bacon bits before topping with cheese for a smoky twist.
• Variation: Mix cream cheese or Greek yogurt with the cheese for a creamier dish.
• Variation: Use soy sauce and sesame oil with sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Variation: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for added depth.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, cool completely and place in a freezer-safe container; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven to preserve texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.

How can I reduce the cooking time?

You can steam the broccoli for a few minutes before roasting, which will shorten the roasting time and still give you tender results.

Marry Me Broccoli Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 93 reviews

Marry Me Broccoli is a delicious and easy-to-make roasted broccoli side dish featuring a savory blend of garlic, red pepper flakes, and two kinds of melted cheese, finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley for brightness. Perfectly roasted until tender and slightly browned, this dish transforms simple broccoli into an impressive, flavorful side that’s great with meats, pastas, or on its own.

• Author: liam
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables & Fresh Items

• 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Oils & Seasonings

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cheeses

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the broccoli, ensuring it will cook evenly and develop a slight char.
2. Prepare Broccoli: Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and pat dry thoroughly. Trim any tough stems to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to create a flavorful coating for the broccoli.
4. Coat Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss them in the olive oil mixture until every floret is evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
5. Spread on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then spread the coated broccoli florets out in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
6. Roast the Broccoli: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the edges begin to turn golden brown.
7. Add Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the broccoli to add rich, melty flavor.
8. Return to Oven: Bake the broccoli with cheese for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted fully and is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Add Lemon Juice: Once out of the oven, drizzle fresh lemon juice evenly over the dish to add a zesty brightness that balances the rich cheese and roasted flavors.
10. Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a vivid pop of green color and fresh herbal aroma, completing the dish.

Notes

• Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor; frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and patted dry first.
• Adjust garlic and lemon juice amounts according to your taste preferences for mild or bold flavors.
• Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta to change the flavor profile.
• Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds just before serving to add texture and crunch.
• Serve warm immediately for the best experience, while cheese is melty and broccoli is tender.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• To reduce cooking time, steam the broccoli briefly before roasting.
• Try vegan cheese substitutes and olive oil for a vegan-friendly version.

Keywords: broccoli recipe, roasted broccoli, cheese broccoli, healthy side dish, easy vegetable side, Marry Me Broccoli