Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Introduction
This Delicious Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Tender broccoli florets are coated in garlicky butter and topped with savory Parmesan for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli (or 2 small), cut into florets
- 1½ tablespoons butter (or olive oil for lighter option)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
Optional Add-ins:
- Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
- Lemon zest for brightness
- Toasted breadcrumbs for crunch
- Vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for dairy-free version
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Step 3: Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Toss well to evenly coat the broccoli in the garlic butter.
- Step 4: Turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Toss gently until the cheese is melted and combined.
- Step 5: Drizzle with lemon juice if desired and serve immediately for best flavor.
For Roasted Version:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Add sautéed garlic and Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Toast breadcrumbs in a little butter or olive oil and sprinkle on top for added crunch.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture, or microwave briefly until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Thaw and drain well before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese instead of traditional Parmesan.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli recipe delivers tender, flavorful broccoli tossed in a savory garlic butter sauce and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a simple side dish, it combines a slightly crisp texture with rich, cheesy, and garlicky notes. The recipe offers both a stovetop sautéed version and an optional roasted method for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli (or 2 small), cut into florets
- 1½ tablespoons butter (or olive oil for lighter option)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
Optional Add-ins
- Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
- Lemon zest for brightness
- Toasted breadcrumbs for crunch
- Vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for dairy-free version
Instructions
- Steam or blanch broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain the broccoli well and set aside to remove excess moisture.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
- Combine broccoli and seasonings: Add the drained broccoli to the skillet. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and onion powder. Toss the broccoli well so that it is evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Turn off the heat and sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Gently toss the broccoli until the cheese has melted slightly and is well incorporated.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle the broccoli with a little lemon juice if desired to add brightness. Serve immediately while warm and flavorful.
- Optional roasted version: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes until broccoli is crisp-tender. Before serving, add sautéed garlic and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute butter with olive oil.
- To add heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting texture.
- For a dairy-free alternative, try vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
- To add crunch, top with toasted breadcrumbs before serving.
- If roasting, ensure to spread the broccoli in a single layer for even cooking.
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan broccoli, Longhorn broccoli, sautéed broccoli, cheesy broccoli side dish, easy broccoli recipe, copycat Longhorn recipe, garlic butter broccoli
