Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
This delicious Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli recipe features tender broccoli florets perfectly coated in a savory garlic butter sauce and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Whether steamed or roasted, it offers a flavorful side dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to please any crowd with its rich, cheesy, and garlicky goodness.
- 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
Scale
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.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Combine broccoli and season: Add the steamed broccoli florets to the skillet. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and onion powder. Toss everything well so the broccoli is evenly coated with the garlic butter and seasonings.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli, then toss gently until the cheese melts and combines thoroughly with the broccoli.
- Finish and serve: Optionally drizzle with lemon juice for a bright finishing touch. Serve the dish immediately while warm.
- Optional roasted version: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes until broccoli is crisp-tender. Toss with sautéed garlic and Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Notes
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and offers superior flavor compared to pre-grated.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and Parmesan with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
- Crushed red pepper flakes add a nice touch of heat if desired.
- Lemon zest can brighten the dish and add a fresh aroma.
- Toasted breadcrumbs make a wonderful crunchy topping for added texture.
- Ensure broccoli is drained well after steaming to prevent watery garlic butter sauce.
- Adjust garlic amount based on your preference for pungency and flavor intensity.
Keywords: garlic parmesan broccoli, copycat longhorn broccoli, cheesy broccoli side dish, quick broccoli recipe, steamed broccoli, roasted broccoli
