20 Delicious Broccoli Recipes for Healthy Eating

Are you looking for a delicious way to get your daily dose of greens? Look no further than the mighty broccoli! This superfood is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to any meal. But don’t just eat it steamed – oh no, broccoli deserves so much more than that. From savory soups to cheesy casseroles, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering broccoli recipes to inspire your next meal. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for healthy eating ideas, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.

In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through the world of broccoli, exploring everything from classic comfort foods to innovative international twists. From garlic roasted to lemon parmesan, and even incorporating it into unexpected dishes like quiche or pasta, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud and dietary need. So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some green goodness, and let’s dive in!

Garlic Roasted Broccoli

Garlic Roasted Broccoli
Transform simple broccoli into a flavorful, caramelized delight with this easy recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the broccoli mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until broccoli is tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally to promote even browning.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the broccoli during the last 2 minutes of roasting.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A rich and comforting soup that combines the nutrients of broccoli with the creaminess of cheese, perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broccoli florets, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional chicken dishes, this recipe combines the creaminess of cheese with the nutty sweetness of broccoli.

Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, and minced garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and create a horizontal incision in each breast to form a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the broccoli-cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Broccoli Stir-Fry with Sesame Sauce

Broccoli Stir-Fry with Sesame Sauce
This quick and flavorful recipe combines the health benefits of broccoli with the nutty goodness of sesame sauce, making for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the broccoli; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
5. Pour the sesame sauce over the broccoli and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin

Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin
A rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This gratin combines the natural sweetness of broccoli and cauliflower with a flavorful cheese sauce.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli and cauliflower with butter until well coated.
3. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cheddar cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
5. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables, making sure they’re fully covered.
6. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs (if using) evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Lemon Parmesan Broccoli Pasta

Lemon Parmesan Broccoli Pasta
A bright and citrusy twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, parmesan, and broccoli for a delightful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the broccoli mixture and toss to combine.
6. Sprinkle parmesan cheese and parsley on top of the pasta. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Broccoli and Bacon Salad

Broccoli and Bacon Salad
A delicious and healthy salad that combines the crunch of broccoli with the smokiness of bacon, all tied together with a tangy dressing.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss broccoli with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted broccoli, diced bacon, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese (if using).
5. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
6. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and broccoli in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and milk. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked broccoli mixture to the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Broccoli and Mushroom Quiche

Broccoli and Mushroom Quiche
A delicious and savory quiche perfect for brunch or dinner, packed with tender broccoli florets and earthy mushrooms.

Ingredients:

– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli, mushrooms, garlic until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Add grated cheese and stir to combine.
5. Arrange cooked vegetables in the pie crust, then pour in the egg mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Spicy Sautéed Broccoli with Chili Flakes

Spicy Sautéed Broccoli with Chili Flakes
Spicy Sautéed Broccoli with Chili Flakes Recipe

Get ready to add a kick to your broccoli with this simple and flavorful recipe!

Ingredients:

– 1 bunch of broccoli, trimmed into florets
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 clove of garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Sprinkle the chili flakes over the broccoli and stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking for an additional 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes

Broccoli and Almond Stir-Fry

Broccoli and Almond Stir-Fry
A delicious and nutritious stir-fry that combines the health benefits of broccoli with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and almonds. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to combine flavors.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Broccoli Tots with Garlic Aioli

Broccoli Tots with Garlic Aioli
This recipe combines crispy broccoli tots with a rich and creamy garlic aioli for a delicious and healthier snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of broccoli, stems removed and florets cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic aioli ingredients: 3 cloves of garlic, roasted; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine broccoli florets, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until the broccoli is evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Form into tots and place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Garlic Aioli:

1. Roast garlic cloves at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
2. Mix with mayonnaise and lemon juice. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Broccoli and Carrot Slaw

Broccoli and Carrot Slaw
This refreshing slaw is a perfect side dish or topping for your favorite grilled meats, sandwiches, or salads. The combination of broccoli florets, shredded carrots, and tangy dressing creates a delightful crunch and flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets and grated carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli-carrot mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Broccoli and Potato Curry

Broccoli and Potato Curry
This flavorful curry is a delicious way to get your daily dose of vegetables. With the creaminess of potatoes and the slight bitterness of broccoli, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the potatoes and broccoli to the pan. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to coat the vegetables evenly.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Broccoli and Shrimp Stir-Fry

Broccoli and Shrimp Stir-Fry
A delicious and healthy stir-fry that combines the crunch of broccoli with the succulence of shrimp, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
6. Stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine with the broccoli and sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Broccoli and Feta Stuffed Peppers

Broccoli and Feta Stuffed Peppers
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the flavors of broccoli, feta cheese, and sweet bell peppers for a satisfying main course.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine broccoli, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the broccoli-feta mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Broccoli and Chickpea Salad

Broccoli and Chickpea Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the crunch of broccoli with the creaminess of chickpeas.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of broccoli, chopped into florets
– 1 can of chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese for added flavor

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets and chickpeas.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli and chickpea mixture, tossing to coat.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.

Broccoli and Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes

Broccoli and Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional baked potatoes, this recipe combines the comforting warmth of cheese with the health benefits of broccoli.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 medium-sized baking potatoes
– 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the potatoes are baking, mix the steamed broccoli with sour cream, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
6. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for the filling.
7. Divide the broccoli mixture among the potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Broccoli and Spinach Lasagna

Broccoli and Spinach Lasagna
A healthier twist on a classic Italian dish, this recipe combines the nutritional power of broccoli and spinach with the comfort of lasagna.

Ingredients:

– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
4. In a separate pan, wilt spinach with a splash of water until tender. Drain excess water.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked broccoli, wilted spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading 1/4 cup of the broccoli-spinach mixture on each noodle, followed by 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Broccoli and Walnut Pesto Pasta

Broccoli and Walnut Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of broccoli, walnuts, and garlic with the creaminess of parmesan cheese and pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp. olive oil

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine broccoli, walnuts, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
3. Add pesto sauce and blend until well combined.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli-walnut mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Combine cooked pasta and broccoli-walnut mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Looking to add some green to your plate? This collection of 20 delicious broccoli recipes offers something for everyone, from comfort food classics like cheesy broccoli rice casserole and broccoli stuffed chicken, to international-inspired dishes like broccoli and potato curry and broccoli and shrimp stir-fry. Whether you’re in the mood for a warm, roasted side dish or a vibrant, flavorful main course, these creative broccoli recipes are sure to inspire healthy eating habits.

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