Crispy Baked Broccoli

If you have ever felt “meh” about steamed broccoli, this one will change your mind. Roasting turns broccoli sweet and nutty, and those little crispy edges are the best part.

I make this constantly because it is easy, it goes with everything, and my kids actually eat it without negotiating. The lemon at the end makes it taste fresh, even when dinner is something simple!

Before You Get Started

Here are a few things worth knowing before you start cooking, so everything comes together smoothly.

• Dry the broccoli: Moisture is the enemy of crisp edges, so pat the florets dry after washing (or buy pre-washed and dry anyway).
• Keep florets similar in size: Even sizes cook evenly, so you do not end up with burnt tiny bits and undercooked big pieces.
• Do not crowd the pan: Space between florets helps them roast instead of steam, which is where the crispness comes from.
• Add lemon at the end: Lemon juice and zest are best after roasting, so the broccoli stays crispy and the flavor stays bright.

How to Make Crispy Baked Broccoli

Here is a quick overview of how to pull this recipe together step-by-step.

1. Prep the Broccoli

Cut into evenly sized florets and dry well so it browns instead of steaming.

2. Season

Toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly coated.

3. Roast Until Crispy

Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer with space between pieces, then roast until the edges are browned and crisp and the centers are tender-crisp.

4. Finish with Lemon

Add lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are the best tips and pro tricks to help this recipe turn out perfectly every time.

• Cut the stalks, too: Peel the tough outer layer and slice the stems into thin pieces so everything cooks at the same rate.
• Use high heat: Broccoli loves a hot oven for crisp edges and caramelized flavor.
• Flip for more browning: A quick shake or flip halfway through helps more pieces make contact with the pan and crisp up.
• Want it extra crispy: Cut smaller florets and roast a few minutes longer, watching closely near the end.
• Lemon + Parmesan finish: Add lemon juice and zest after roasting, then shower with freshly grated Parmesan.
• Balsamic twist: Toss the broccoli with 1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar along with the olive oil for a tangy-sweet edge.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes before roasting for a little heat in every bite.
• Cheddar melt: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top during the last couple of minutes so it melts without burning.
• Tomato + glaze upgrade: Roast cherry tomatoes in the same pan, then finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• Bacon boost: Add sliced center-cut bacon to the pan so it crisps up while the broccoli roasts, then finish with Parmesan.
• Seasoning swap: Change the vibe with Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, ranch seasoning, grill seasoning, Old Bay, or fresh rosemary or thyme.
• Everything bagel finish: Sprinkle Everything Bagel Seasoning right after it comes out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some easy and delicious ways to serve this recipe.

• Sheet pan dinners: Make it a meal with this easy weeknight sheet pan meal with crispy roasted potatoes and perfectly cooked chicken.
• Main dishes: Serve it alongside this Cajun Salmon, Rosemary Chicken, Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop for a pop of color!
• Frittatas: Frittatas and quiches are a great use for leftover baked broccoli! I love to use leftover broccoli in this Vegetable Frittata, Broccoli and Cheese Frittata, Turkey Quiche Muffins with Broccoli, and Ham and Cheese Frittata with Broccoli for a delicious breakfast or lunch dish.
• Quesadillas: Quesadillas with roasted broccoli, cheese, and salsa are a favorite in our home and something the kids gobble up.
• Meal prep: Meal prep is easy with this broccoli recipe. Serve it over your favorite whole grain with rotisserie chicken, cherry tomatoes, and this homemade ranch dressing.
• Pasta: Toss it with warm pasta like this Lemon Broccoli Pasta or cold pasta like this Easy Vegetable Pasta Salad. Add extra veggies or greens!
• Bowls: Make broccoli bowls with farro and creamy tahini dressing.

Storage & Reheating

Here is how to store, reheat, and enjoy your leftovers.

• Store in the fridge: Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freeze for later: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months (texture softens a bit, but it is still great in bowls and soups).
• Reheat gently: Recrisp in a 425-degree oven or air fryer until hot; the microwave works, but softens the edges.
• Use up leftovers: Chop into omelets, toss into salads, fold into quesadillas, stir into pasta, or add to grain bowls with chicken and a quick sauce.