Steamed broccoli is a basic side dish that goes with so many different meals! Here’s how to steam broccoli so it turns out perfect every time.
Lately, I’ve been going back-to-basics and covering all those recipes everyone should know—but sometimes we don’t just because we’ve never made them before! After my baked chicken breasts and Instant Pot rice, steamed broccoli was the next on my list. How do you get perfect steamed broccoli that’s not soggy and sad? And how do you serve it so your kids will actually eat it?! I’ve got lots of tips on how to steam broccoli below!
Simple Steamed Broccoli Recipe
Steamed broccoli is a great anytime side dish, but it’s also an ingredient in a lot of recipes, so it’s important to know how to make it! From topping baked potatoes to tossing with pasta, steamed broccoli pops up everywhere as an ingredient. (You can also replace the frozen broccoli with steamed in my Broccoli Casserole).
If you’re serving steamed broccoli as an easy side, you can dress it up with a sprinkle of seasoning salt, flavored oil, herbs or spices. It’s also perfect for drizzling and dipping with your favorite sauces. Even kids who aren’t fans of plain steamed broccoli will love it when it’s covered in cheese sauce!
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets – You can use any amount, depending on how many people you’re serving or what you’re using the broccoli for.
- Water
How to Steam Broccoli
1. Prepare
Put a steamer basket or a colander inside a large saucepan. Place the broccoli in the basket, then add enough water to cover the bottom of the pan.
2. Bring Water to a Boil
Set the pan on the stovetop and bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Steam the Broccoli
Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp when pierced with a fork.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Steamed Broccoli
Place any leftovers in an airtight storage container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or steam it for a few minutes to warm it up. Steamed broccoli can also be frozen for up to 3 months and then used just as you would store-bought frozen broccoli.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some of my favorite ways to serve steamed broccoli:
- Drizzle it with garlic butter.
- Smother it in cheese sauce. Take it up another notch by sprinkling this with French-fried onions!
- Dip it into peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce or even in my French Fry Dipping Sauce!
- Add it to your next homemade pizza.
- Stir it into Chicken Alfredo.
- Serve it with ranch dressing for dipping.
FAQ
How long does it take for broccoli to steam?
It depends on the amount of broccoli you’re steaming and how big (or small) you cut the florets, but it usually takes between 5 to 8 minutes.
Is broccoli healthier steamed?
Yes, steaming broccoli is the healthiest way to prepare it! It helps it retain more of its nutrients.
How do you cook broccoli without a steamer?
You can still steam broccoli even without a steamer. You just need a colander that will fit into a pot or saucepan! Roasted broccoli is also an option, although the flavor is very different (but just as good!).
More Vegetable Side Dishes
- Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts
- Zucchini Casserole
- Homemade Creamed Corn (Crock Pot Option!)
- Individual Green Bean Casseroles
Steamed Broccoli
Ingredients
- broccoli florets trimmed and washed
- water
Instructions
- Place a steam basket or colander into a large saucepan.
- Add broccoli and enough water to cover the bottom of the saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover with a tight fighting lid and simmer 5-8 minutes or until broccoli is tender-crisp when pierced with a fork.
