Print

Marry Me Broccoli 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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