Roasted broccoli is a simple side dish that I make at least once per week with dinner. Keep reading to learn my tips for the best roasted broccoli, including variation ideas for this healthy side dish.
Simple is Best for Roasted Broccoli
I have been making roast broccoli as a side dish for as long as I can remember. I make a few variations of this dish (see ideas below), but the base method is the same. Perfectly cooked broccoli makes the perfect side dish for basically any protein, and when you season it just right, even your kids will enjoy it!
My biggest tip is to be sure to really “massage” the olive oil and seasonings into the broccoli before you cook it. Yes, I just told you to massage your broccoli. Trust the process, friends. Follow my recipe below for broccoli magic.
Ingredients for Roasted Broccoli
It doesn’t get simpler than this oven-roasted broccoli recipe. Just a few simple ingredients is all you need. For the full recipe with measurements and ingredients, see the recipe card below. Here is a summary of the ingredients:
- Head of broccoli
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon juice, optional
How to Make Simple Roasted Broccoli
Another reason this easy broccoli recipe is one of my go-to dinner sides is because it’s so quick and easy to make. Here are the steps to roasted broccoli perfection:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Cut broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces and place them on the baking sheet. Tip: try to cut your broccoli into similar-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Drizzle the broccoli with the extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Use your hands to toss the broccoli until it is coated with olive oil and seasonings, squeezing and massaging the oil and seasonings into the broccoli until all fully coated.
- Arrange the broccoli into one even layer on the pan.
- Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. If you prefer crispier broccoli, leave it in a little longer. If you cut your broccoli larger, of course it will take longer to cook, depending on the broccoli size.
- Optional: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and toss before serving.
Variations for Roasted Broccoli
There are so many ways you can change the flavor of this oven-baked broccoli, using the same base recipe and technique. Here are some ideas:
- Toss with fresh parmesan cheese: Once finished baking, toss with some parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Ranch roasted broccoli: ​Use a pack of dry Ranch seasoning mix instead of other seasonings.
- Spice it up: ​Add in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Chili Lime: Combine chili powder, lime juice, and a dash of cumin for a tangy, smoky kick.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle generously with this popular blend.
- Smoky Paprika: Toss with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne.
- Cheddar and Breadcrumbs: Roast with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Goat Cheese Crumble: Add goat cheese after roasting for a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Herbed Butter: Roast broccoli and then toss with melted butter infused with thyme and rosemary.
- Maple Mustard: Drizzle with a mix of maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
- Honey Sriracha: Mix honey and sriracha for a sweet and spicy glaze.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction over roasted broccoli.
- Bacon Crumbles: Add cooked bacon bits for a savory boost.
What to Serve With Roasted Broccoli
Here are some ideas for what to serve with roasted broccoli for a complete meal:
Proteins
- Grilled Chicken
- Air Fryer Chicken
- Salmon
- Steak
- Roast Beef
- Pork Chops
Carbs and Grains
- Mashed Potatoes
- ​Garlic Butter Oven Roasted Potatoes
- White rice or brown rice
- Quinoa
- Pasta Dishes like this simple spaghetti with olive oil and herbs.
- Couscous
- Sweet Potatoes – Try my perfect roasted sweet potatoes!
Casseroles
- Mac and Cheese
- Chicken Casserole
Storing Leftover Roasted Broccoli
​If we have leftover broccoli after dinner, I always use it as an added side with the next night’s dinner. Simply allow the broccoli to cool, then place in an airtight container and refrigerator. It will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave or pop back in the oven at 350 degrees.
More Recipes You’ll Love:
Roasted Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Head of broccoli
- 2 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon juice to taste, optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Cut broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces and place them on the baking sheet. Tip: try to cut your broccoli into similar-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Drizzle the broccoli with the extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Use your hands to toss the broccoli until it is coated with olive oil and seasonings, squeezing and massaging the oil and seasonings into the broccoli until all fully coated.
- Arrange the broccoli into one even layer on the pan.
- Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. If you prefer crispier broccoli, leave it in a little longer. If you cut your broccoli larger, of course it will take longer to cook, depending on the broccoli size.
- Optional: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and toss before serving.
Hi, I’m Jessica! I am wife to Chris, and mom to Kaip, Alana and Koa. I am a website developer and blogger. In this space, I share about everything from parenting, making money from home, recipes, mom lifestyle, and things for kids! Learn more about me here.
