Alton Brown Roasted Broccoli Recipe

Alton Brown’s roasted broccoli is my go-to version any time I’m after roasted veggies. These are my fam’s favorite way to eat broccoli!

You’ll find that roasting at a high temperature transforms broccoli into a crispy, caramelized goodie.

The trick is preheating your oven to 425 degrees to get the texture we’re after here.

Once roasted, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a dash of breadcrumbs can add a savory kick.

How to Make Alton Brown Roasted Broccoli

Ingredients

• 1 pound Broccoli (rinsed and trimmed)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/3 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan (grated)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2:

Cut the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces and slice the stalks into 1/8-inch thick rounds.

Step 3:

In a bowl, toss the broccoli with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Step 4:

Spread the broccoli evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 8 minutes.

Step 5:

Remove from the oven, toss with panko, and return to roast for another 12 minutes until tender.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Fresh Broccoli

Always try to use the freshest broccoli you can find; it makes a huge difference in flavor and texture!

Evenly Sized Pieces

Cut the broccoli florets and stalks into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking in the oven.

Customize the Flavor

Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices, such as red pepper flakes or lemon zest, for an extra kick!

Preheat the Pan

Preheating your sheet pan can help achieve a nice crispy texture by starting the cooking process the moment broccoli touches the pan.

Serve Immediately

Serve the roasted broccoli as soon as it’s done for the best flavor and texture with a touch of crispness.

What to Serve with Roasted Broccoli

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted broccoli pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes.

The rich, creamy texture of the potatoes complements the slightly crisp broccoli.

You get a satisfying contrast that works well together on any plate.

Lemon Rice Pilaf

Lemon rice pilaf adds a zesty angle to the meal.

The citrus flavor enhances the earthy notes of broccoli.

It’s a simple yet effective way to brighten up your dish.

Creamy Polenta

Serving creamy polenta on the side gives you a smooth, comforting contrast to the broccoli.

The polenta’s mild taste is a perfect canvas that lets the broccoli’s roasted flavors shine.

It’s a unique accompaniment that adds elegance to your table.

Baked Sweet Potatoes with Maple Glaze

If you want something a bit sweeter, baked sweet potatoes with a maple glaze are a great option.

The sweetness of the potatoes balances the savory notes of broccoli.

It’s a tasty twist that brings out complex flavors in the meal.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

For something different, try serving roasted red pepper hummus alongside your broccoli.

The hummus brings a creamy, smoky flavor that complements the vegetable well.

You’ll find it to be an unexpected yet delightful pairing.

Herb Quiche

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making herb quiche as a side.

The light, egg-based dish adds an interesting depth to your menu.

With all the herbs, the quiche really enhances the fresh taste of the broccoli.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Options

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to change up the flavor profile of your roasted broccoli.

Parmesan is a classic choice, but you can try adding cheddar, feta, or even blue cheese for a more intense taste.

For those avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast is a wonderful alternative that adds a cheesy flavor without the cheese!

Spice It Up

You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences or to match the other dishes in your meal.

Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

For a smoky flavor, try incorporating some smoked paprika into the mix before roasting.

Additional Veggies

Consider adding other vegetables to your dish to create a colorful and nutrient-rich side.

Carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts can be roasted alongside the broccoli and pair beautifully.

If you want a little extra flavor, try adding sliced garlic cloves or shallots.

These variations keep the dish exciting and allow you to tailor it to your liking with ease!

How to Store Leftover Alton Brown Roasted Broccoli

Storing leftover roasted broccoli properly helps maintain its flavor and texture.

To do this, you need a plan that keeps it fresh and tasty!

Use an Airtight Container

You want to keep the roasted broccoli in a suitable container, like a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.

This prevents unwanted moisture and air from affecting the broccoli.

Avoid containers that do not seal well, as they can cause the broccoli to become soggy.

Store in the Refrigerator

The best place to keep your leftover roasted broccoli is in the refrigerator, where it will stay chilled.

Make sure to store it in the fridge within two hours of roasting to prevent spoiling.

Keep it at a consistent, cool temperature for the best results.

Consume Within Three Days

Roasted broccoli is best enjoyed when consumed within a few days of storing.

Aim to use the leftovers within three days to keep it at its peak freshness.

After this period, the broccoli may start to lose its desirable flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Baking Sheet

You might be tempted to fit all the broccoli on one sheet to save time.

Overcrowding can cause the broccoli to steam instead of roast, losing that desirable crispy texture.

Use two sheets if needed for even cooking and maximum crispiness.

Using Too Low of a Temperature

Roasting at a low temperature won’t get you that caramelized flavor you’re aiming for.

Aim for at least 425 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve those beautifully browned edges.

Adjust the temperature up a notch if your oven tends to run cooler.

Not Drying Broccoli Properly

Excess moisture can prevent your broccoli from roasting well.

After washing, make sure to thoroughly dry your broccoli, using a kitchen towel or salad spinner.

Drying helps the broccoli to roast instead of steam, which is what you’re going for.