Broccoli done right, like Longhorn Steakhouse does, is crisp, buttery, and packed with just the right balance of garlic and cheese!
Steaming it until it’s just tender keeps it from turning mushy when tossed with seasoning.
A mix of butter, garlic, and a pinch of salt brings out its natural sweetness.
Shredded Parmesan melts slightly from the heat, giving each piece a little extra richness.
Adding a squeeze of lemon right before serving brightens up everything without overpowering the other ingredients.
This side dish pairs well with anything, but it’s so good, I’ve eaten it straight from the pan!
How to Make Longhorn’s Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 lb Broccoli Florets
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Line a large baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2:
Put a pot of water on the stove and bring it to a boil.
Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
Step 3:
Drain the broccoli and transfer it to the prepared baking pan.
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then stir in the minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant.
Step 4:
Pour the melted garlic butter over the broccoli.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lemon juice giving it a gentle toss to coat.
Step 5:
Top the broccoli with the grated Parmesan cheese and place it in the oven.
Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and melted.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choose Fresh Broccoli
Selecting the freshest broccoli is key for a crisp and delicious result, so look for vibrant green florets and firm stalks.
Adjust Garlic to Taste
If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to increase the amount for a stronger flavor that will really shine.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide a better texture and melt more evenly compared to pre-packaged options.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
Boiling the broccoli for just 3-4 minutes ensures that it remains crisp and doesn’t become mushy during the roasting process.
Experiment with Seasonings
Feel free to try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat or smoked paprika for a bit of smokiness!
What to Serve with Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Grilled Chicken Breast
If you’re planning on making the Longhorn Broccoli recipe, you might want to pair it with grilled chicken breast.
The smoky flavors and tender texture of the chicken pair beautifully with the savory garlic parmesan broccoli.
Try marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes make a comforting side dish that goes well with this broccoli recipe.
The creaminess of the potatoes is a nice balance to the crunch of the broccoli.
Add extra garlic and a touch of butter to enhance the flavors!
Baked Salmon
Another excellent choice is baked salmon.
The rich, buttery flavor of the salmon complements the garlicky notes in the broccoli.
Season the salmon with herbs and a squeeze of lemon to tie the flavors together nicely.
Spiced Couscous
For something a bit different, give spiced couscous a try.
Infused with spices like cumin and coriander, it adds an exciting twist to your meal.
The fluffy texture and unique taste of couscous work wonderfully alongside the broccoli.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a fun and tasty side dish that pairs well with broccoli.
The sweetness of the fries contrasts the savory broccoli flavors beautifully.
Try tossing the fries in a little paprika for an added kick!
Variations and Substitutions
Broccoli Alternatives
You can try using broccolini if you’re out of broccoli for a similar taste and texture.
Cauliflower is another great option for a different spin on the dish.
Both options maintain the satisfaction of the original recipe.
Dairy-Free Option
If you need a dairy-free version, swap out the butter for olive oil or any plant-based butter.
You won’t lose the richness in flavor, and it’s a great way to cater to everyone at the table.
Cheese Choices
Feel free to try some different cheeses if you’re looking to make a change.
Shredded cheddar or asiago can add a new flavor dimension to the dish.
It’s all about what you enjoy most!
Garlic Variations
If you love garlic as much as I do, consider roasting your garlic first for a milder, sweeter taste.
This can change the overall kick of the recipe and add a unique flavor.
It’s simple and can be done while your broccoli steams!
How to Store Leftover Longhorn Broccoli
Storing your delicious broccoli after enjoying it can be a simple task!
You want to make sure that the freshness and flavor are retained as much as possible for your next meal.
Cooling Before Storing
First things first, let the broccoli cool completely at room temperature.
This step helps prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can make your leftovers soggy.
I usually wait about 10-15 minutes for this process to finish.
Choosing the Right Container
It’s important to use an airtight container for storing your broccoli.
Sealed containers help preserve that wonderful garlic parmesan taste by keeping moisture and air out.
This little trick allows you to enjoy it over the next few days with similar flavor and texture!
Duration in the Refrigerator
Your leftovers can typically keep well in the fridge for up to three days.
As a friendly reminder, label your container with the date you made the dish.
This small step will help you keep track of freshness and avoid any less appetizing surprises later on.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the Wrong Broccoli
You should always look for fresh, dark green broccoli florets without any brown or yellow spots.
This ensures a fresher taste and better texture.
Overcooking the Broccoli
Avoid overcooking because it can make the broccoli mushy and dull-colored.
I recommend blanching the broccoli for only a few minutes for the perfect texture.
Skipping the Seasoning
A well-seasoned broccoli dish makes all the difference.
Remember to use salt, garlic, and possibly a squeeze of lemon for added flavor!
Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Broccoli Florets
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Line a large baking pan with parchment paper.
- Put a pot of water on the stove and bring it to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the broccoli and transfer it to the prepared baking pan.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then stir in the minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant.
- Pour the melted garlic butter over the broccoli.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lemon juice giving it a gentle toss to coat.
- Top the broccoli with the grated Parmesan cheese and place it in the oven.
- Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and melted.