Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Introduction
This Delicious Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli is a flavorful and simple side dish that transforms everyday broccoli into something special. With a rich garlic butter sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it’s perfect alongside any main course. You can steam or roast it, making it versatile for your preferred cooking style.
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)
Instructions
- Step 1: Steam or blanch the broccoli by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 3: Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Toss well to coat the broccoli evenly with the garlic butter.
- Step 4: Turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Toss gently until the cheese melts and combines well.
- Step 5: Drizzle with lemon juice if desired, then serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Variations
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or lemon zest for brightness.
- Toast breadcrumbs and sprinkle on top for extra crunch.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and Parmesan with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
- To roast instead, toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes until crisp-tender. Add sautéed garlic and Parmesan before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the broccoli moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw and drain it well before steaming or roasting to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have fresh Parmesan?
Pre-grated Parmesan can be used, but freshly grated cheese melts better and provides superior flavor and texture.
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Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Delicious Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish featuring tender broccoli florets coated in garlic butter and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfectly steamed or roasted, it provides a savory, cheesy complement to any meal, capturing the essence of Longhorn Steakhouse’s popular recipe right at home.
Ingredients
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 they turn bright green and become just tender. Drain immediately to stop cooking and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine: Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet with the garlic butter. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and onion powder. Toss well to coat the broccoli evenly with the garlic butter mixture.
- Add cheese: Turn off the heat and sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Toss gently until the cheese melts and is well combined with the broccoli.
- Finish and serve: Optionally drizzle with lemon juice for a bright note. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
- Optional roasted version: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until crisp-tender. Add the sautéed garlic and Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Notes
- Fresh garlic gives the richest flavor—avoid using garlic powder for the garlic element.
- Don’t overcook broccoli; it should be tender but still crisp, not mushy.
- Cheese quality matters: freshly grated Parmesan melts best and offers superior taste.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan instead of dairy cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Broccoli, Longhorn Broccoli Copycat, Sautéed Broccoli, Parmesan Side Dish, Easy Broccoli Recipe
