Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe

Introduction

This Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli is a flavorful side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. With tender broccoli coated in garlicky butter and Parmesan cheese, it’s sure to be a hit at any meal.

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

1. Step 1: Steam or blanch broccoli by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Step 3: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Toss well to coat evenly in the garlic butter.
4. Step 4: Turn off the heat and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Toss gently until the cheese melts and combines.
5. Step 5: Drizzle with lemon juice if using, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a roasted version, 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.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or lemon zest for extra brightness.
• Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to make this dish dairy-free.
• Freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the texture and flavor, or microwave briefly until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely. Replace butter with olive oil and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly version.

Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 122 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Copycat Longhorn Broccoli recipe delivers tender, flavorful broccoli florets coated in a savory garlic butter sauce and finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Inspired by the popular Longhorn Steakhouse side, this dish is quick to prepare, offering both steamed and roasted options for a delicious, easy-to-make veggie side dish anyone can enjoy.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Steam or blanch broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain the broccoli well and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
3. Combine broccoli and seasonings: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and onion powder. Toss well to coat the broccoli evenly with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Add cheese: Turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli. Gently toss until the cheese melts and the broccoli is well coated.
5. Finish and serve: Optionally drizzle with lemon juice to add a fresh tang, then serve the broccoli immediately for best flavor and texture.
6. For roasted version (optional): Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 20–25 minutes until crisp-tender. Then stir in sautéed garlic and sprinkle Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting texture.
• Be careful not to overcook broccoli to maintain a nice crisp-tender bite.
• For a lighter dish, substitute butter with olive oil.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes or lemon zest to customize the flavor profile.
• To make this dish vegan, use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast and olive oil instead of butter.
• Drain steamed broccoli thoroughly to avoid sogginess when sautéing with garlic butter.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan broccoli, copycat Longhorn broccoli, garlic butter broccoli, roasted broccoli side dish, easy vegetable recipe