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Oven roasted broccoli transforms a humble veggie into something completely different: crispy, slightly nutty, and full of flavor. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the broccoli, creating those golden brown edges that make this dish so irresistible. Even picky eaters will love roasted broccoli, especially when it’s seasoned just right!
Best of all, this recipe is incredibly easy and made with just a handful of ingredients. For more simple vegetable sides, try my Grilled Corn on the Cob or Roasted Brussels Sprouts.
Why you’ll love this roasted broccoli recipe!
I love roasted vegetables, but oven roasted broccoli is one of my favorites for sure! Like roasted asparagus, the tops get crispy when roasted at high heat, but the stems get caramelized and tender. This creates contrasting textures and flavors that create a crowd-pleasing side dish—even for people who don’t usually like broccoli!
You can add crushed garlic to the olive oil, sprinkle the broccoli with shredded cheddar or grated Parmesan before you pop it in the oven, or amp up the flavor with seasoning salt. But it’s also one of those simple dishes that’s full of flavor even if you just make it with broccoli and oil!
- Crispy and Flavorful: Roasting gives broccoli perfectly caramelized edges and a rich, savory flavor.
- Quick and Easy: Just a few ingredients and about 20 minutes in the oven.
- Healthy Side Dish: Loaded with nutrients, fiber, and vitamins.
- Pairs with Everything: Works with chicken, steak, pasta, and more.
- Customizable: Add garlic, lemon, or cheese to switch up the flavor.
Table of Contents
Ingredient Notes
See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
- Broccoli – Use the florets and the stems. The stems get browned and tender in the oven—so good!
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Helps the broccoli crisp up and adds richness.
- Salt and freshly ground pepper – Season to taste.
Variations
- Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss with minced garlic before roasting for extra flavor.
- Smashed Broccoli: Lightly press the florets before roasting for more crispy edges.
- Cheesy Broccoli: Sprinkle parmesan or cheddar cheese over the top before serving.
- Lemon Broccoli: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after roasting for brightness.
- Spicy Broccoli: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little heat.
How to Make Oven Roasted Broccoli
- Prepare: Preheat your oven to 450ºF and toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, salt, and pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. Make sure the broccoli isn’t crowded on the sheet—spread it out evenly, which prevents it from steaming instead of getting crispy and caramelized.
- Roast: Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast the broccoli for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the stems are tender. Serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Top it with a drizzle of garlic butter.
- Serve it with cheese sauce.
- Use it as a topping for pizza.
- Stir it into your favorite pasta dishes, like Chicken Alfredo and Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
- Upgrade your next baked potato with roasted broccoli instead of steamed!
- Squeeze lemon juice over the top before serving, then sprinkle it with grated Parmesan.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the broccoli in the microwave or warm it in a skillet sprayed with oil or cooking spray. You can also freeze the broccoli for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Roasted broccoli is full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants while being low in calories.
It’s usually because the pan was overcrowded or the broccoli had too much moisture.
No! You can roast it directly for the best texture and flavor.
Yes, but fresh works best. If using frozen, thaw and dry it well first and follow this guide: How to Roast Frozen Broccoli.
More Broccoli Recipes You’ll Love
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Oven Roasted Broccoli (Quick & Easy)
Ingredients
- 1 bunch broccoli about 1 1/2 pounds, cut into florets, stems peeled and sliced or diced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- salt and freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
- Toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Spread the florets out and then roast, without stirring, until the edges are crispy and the stems are crisp tender, about 20 minutes.
- Serve warm.
I’ve made this before and it’s so good. Crispy, tasty and goes with everything!
Roasted broccoli is always a win — so easy and so much flavor!
Can’t beat a quick, healthy side like this, yum!
So easy and so tasty! I love when simple recipes turn out this good.
Broccoli doesn’t have that much carbohydrates.