Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Delight

Name: Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Posted on August 21, 2025

Dinner

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Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever wondered how to transform the humble broccoli into a dish that everyone will rave about? Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese is not just a side dish; it’s a culinary delight featuring perfectly roasted florets enveloped in a blanket of melted cheese. This dish boasts a delightful combination of crunchy textures and rich flavors, making it an irresistible addition to any meal.

Imagine serving this vibrant green masterpiece at your next family gathering or dinner party. The aromatic scent of garlic and cheese wafts through the air as guests gather around the table, eagerly anticipating their first bite. Whether paired with grilled chicken, steak, or as part of a vegetarian feast, this easy and healthy side dish promises to elevate your dining experience. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a nutritious yet indulgent treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Key Ingredients For Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Side Dish

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green, firm broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor and helps achieve that crispy texture.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth to the flavor profile without overpowering the natural taste of broccoli.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in this dish.
Shredded Cheese: Use your favorite melting cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, for a gooey finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Side Dish

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the broccoli gets nice and crispy while cooking.

Second Step : Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread out the fresh broccoli florets evenly on the sheet.

Third Step : Season the Broccoli

Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure even coating.

Fourth Step : Bake Until Crisp

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. The broccoli should be tender yet crispy around the edges.

Fifth Step : Add Cheese

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each floret. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Sixth Step : Serve Hot

Transfer your crispy baked broccoli with cheese to a serving platter while it’s still hot. Enjoy it as a flavorful side dish that complements any meal!

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh florets not only taste better but also provide optimal crispiness.
Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure not to crowd the baking sheet; giving space allows for proper roasting.
Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like Parmesan or Gouda for varied flavors.
Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Presentation Ideas

This Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Side Dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal. The flavors complement each other, making it a delightful combination.
Quinoa Salad: Add a refreshing quinoa salad to your plate. The nutty taste of quinoa balances the cheesy broccoli, creating a nutritious side dish.
Roasted Salmon: Accompany your roasted salmon with this crispy veggie delight. The richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the crunch and cheese of the broccoli.

Health Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Side Dish provides numerous health benefits. It is rich in vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health. Additionally, broccoli contains fiber that aids digestion and promotes gut health.

Eating broccoli regularly can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Its antioxidants fight free radicals, promoting overall wellness. Including this dish in your diet can be a tasty way to boost your nutrient intake while enjoying a flavorful side.

How to Perfectly Bake Broccoli

To achieve that perfect crispiness in your Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Side Dish, follow these simple steps. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.

Toss the florets in olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder for flavor before spreading them out on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes until they are tender and have crisped up nicely. Adding cheese towards the end of baking ensures it melts perfectly without burning.

Tips for Making This Dish Ahead of Time

If you want to prepare this Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Side Dish ahead of time, consider these tips. You can wash and cut the broccoli florets in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

When you’re ready to bake, simply toss them with oil and seasonings before following the baking instructions. If you want to make it even easier, you can also prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until needed.

FAQs

What makes Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese healthy?

Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Side Dish is loaded with nutrients while being lower in calories than many traditional side dishes. Broccoli is high in vitamins C and K and provides fiber that supports digestive health. By using moderate amounts of cheese and healthy fats like olive oil, you enhance flavor without compromising healthiness.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for this dish! However, it’s best to thaw it first and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before baking. This helps ensure that your Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese remains crunchy rather than soggy during cooking.

How do I store leftovers of Crispy Baked Broccoli?

To store leftovers of your Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese – Easy & Healthy Side Dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots along with your broccoli for added color and nutrition. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly together when baked as part of your Crispy Baked Broccoli with Cheese dish.