Cheesy Smashed Broccoli - Amira's Pantry

Take your roasted broccoli to the next level with this smashed broccoli recipe. Crispy, caramelized, and totally worth it.

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Snack Worthy Smashed Broccoli

I love making this Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli when I need a quick veggie side dish. When I have the time, I use fresh broccoli, cut it, and roast it, but often, I find myself reaching for the frozen bag out of convenience.

These smashed broccoli florets are such a treat! If you’re a broccoli lover, you are going to eat the whole pan by yourself. Surprisingly, my child, who usually hates Parmesan, could not stop eating them, and even my broccoli hater managed to eat a couple! I was so thrilled with the results.

Pro Tip

I like to steam the broccoli in the microwave first to soften it up. Alternatively, you can roast the florets for a few minutes in the oven before smashing them.

Smashed broccoli

A 4 ingredient broccoli chips with a parmesan crust is all you need to get your broccoli to the next level. A healthy appetizer where broccoli is the real star.

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Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 Servings

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F/200°C, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
If your frozen broccoli is in a steerable bag then steam in the microwave as suggested by the instructions on the bag.
If not, place frozen broccoli florets on a microwave safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water, cover then microwave on high for 3-4 minutes until fork tender. Drain well and let them cool down for a minute or two until you are able to handle. Pat dry.
Depending on the size of each floret, pour ¼ to ½ teaspoon oil on the parchment paper, smear a bit them place one floret over.
Using the bottom of a glass cup smash the floret so it is flattened. Top with some parmesan cheese and sprinkle some pepper flakes on top if using.
Repeat this with the rest of the florets until done.
Bake in the center of the oven until the cheese is crispy for about 20 minutes.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

If you prefer to use fresh broccoli, cut it into chunks then place in a microwave safe bowl with 3 tablespoons of water and microwave on high for 2-4 minutes until fork tender.
If you are using frozen broccoli and found small pieces on the bag, put them together to make larger pieces, smash and add parmesan.
Storage:
- Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 2-3 days.
- To reheat:
  - Air Fryer(preferred method). Place on an air fryer and air fry on 350 for 3-5 minutes to crisp them up again.
  - Oven : place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and reheat on 350 for 5-10 minutes.
  - Skillet: Brush and skillet with oil and reheat in the skillet on medium for 7-8 minutes or until crisp.

Nutrition

How to Make Smashed Broccoli

1- Steam the frozen broccoli according to the package directions, or microwave it with a little water until fork tender, then drain and pat dry well.

An overhead view of vibrant green, frozen broccoli florets in a clear glass mixing bowl.

2- Add a small amount of oil to the parchment paper and place each broccoli floret on top. Use the bottom of a glass to gently smash the florets flat, then top with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.

A two image collage showing how to make smashed broccoli. The left one shows a hand using the flat bottom of a glass to flatten a broccoli floret on a baking sheet. The right one shows the flattened broccoli florets topped with shredded cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

3- Bake the smashed broccoli in the center of the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is crispy and golden. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

An overhead view of a large baking sheet with rows of flattened broccoli florets covered with shredded cheese and red pepper flakes.

FAQs

How to store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 2-3 days.

How can I reheat smashed broccoli florets?

To reheat:
Air Fryer(preferred method): Place on an air fryer and air fry on 350 for 3-5 minutes to crisp them up again.
Oven : place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and reheat on 350 for 5-10 minutes.
Skillet: Brush and skillet with oil and reheat in the skillet on medium for 7-8 minutes or until crisp.

Can I use fresh broccoli?

Yes of course, just clean and cut fresh broccoli into florets, then steam in the microwave or on the stovetop until tender.

Cheesy Smashed Broccoli – Amira’s Pantry