If you’ve ever visited Longhorn Steakhouse, you might remember their delicious broccoli side dish. It’s perfectly steamed and comes with a wonderful flavor that makes it much more than just ordinary broccoli.
Maybe you’ve wished you could recreate this tasty dish at home to accompany your favorite meals. Well, you’re in luck!
The Longhorn Broccoli Recipe features fresh broccoli, garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese, giving the broccoli a savory and rich taste that brings out its natural flavors.
With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can have this delightful dish ready in under 15 minutes. This makes it an easy and fast option for any dinner at home.
Picture yourself serving this steamed and seasoned delight alongside a juicy steak or adding it to your favorite casserole creations. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it a must-try for anyone wanting to enjoy a restaurant-quality side dish in the comfort of their own kitchen.
What Makes This Longhorn Broccoli Recipe Special?
This Longhorn broccoli recipe captures the essence of the well-loved dish from Longhorn Steakhouse. The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese elevates the flavor to a new level. You can enjoy a true restaurant-style experience right in your kitchen.
The broccoli is cooked to tender perfection, keeping a slight crunch that pairs well with various main courses. It’s a great side for steaks, ribs, or casseroles. The savory flavor makes it a versatile addition to many meals.
By using olive oil along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, you can easily recreate the Longhorn garlic Parmesan broccoli at home. This blend offers a burst of flavor without requiring complicated steps.
The simplicity of this easy copycat recipe is one of its key attractions. In just 15 minutes, you can prepare a delicious dish that tastes just like what you’d get at the restaurant. Anyone can make this straightforward recipe, even without much cooking experience.
Treat your taste buds to the richness and texture of copycat Longhorn broccoli. With just a few ingredients, this delightful side dish brings a touch of sophistication to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
To make the delicious Longhorn broccoli, you’ll need some simple ingredients.
Start with fresh broccoli florets. These are the main part of the dish, so choose a fresh head of broccoli or pre-cut florets for best results.
Garlic adds a rich flavor. You can use either minced garlic or garlic powder for a more delicate taste.
You’ll need butter for a smooth texture. It coats the broccoli and helps blend all the flavors together.
Add parmesan cheese to give the dish its signature cheesy taste. Grated parmesan works best.
A dash of olive oil can enhance the flavor and help in cooking.
For a tangy twist, add some fresh lemon juice. Just a squeeze will lift the flavors nicely.
Don’t forget your seasonings. Salt and pepper are a must, but feel free to spice things up with paprika or a touch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients Needed:
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Garlic powder
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli thoroughly. Then, trim it into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are a uniform size for even cooking.
- Season the Broccoli: In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until each floret is evenly coated.
- Steam the Broccoli: Add 2 cups of water to a saucepan and bring it to a boil on the stovetop. Then, place the broccoli in a steamer basket and set it over the boiling water. Cover and steam the broccoli for about 2-4 minutes until it reaches a tender-crisp texture.
- Add the Parmesan: Once steamed, transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while it is still hot, allowing the cheese to melt slightly over the tender broccoli.
Tips for Perfection:
- Ensure the broccoli is tender but crisp to maintain its freshness.
- Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred broccoli texture.
- Experiment with additional seasonings like onion powder for varied flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Start with fresh broccoli. Choose bright green florets for the best flavor and nutritional value. Cut them into bite-size pieces for even cooking.
Garlic and Parmesan are key ingredients. You can toss broccoli with minced garlic and a generous sprinkle of parmesan. This step gives your dish a cheesy, savory twist.
Aim for a tender-crisp texture. Steam the broccoli until it’s just tender but still slightly firm. Avoid overcooking to keep a bit of crunch.
Enhance with a garlic butter sauce. Melt butter and mix it with minced garlic. Then, pour it over the broccoli for a rich, buttery flavor.
Try a lemon butter sauce for a fresh taste. Simply add a squeeze of lemon juice to your butter. This adds brightness and a little zing.
Season well. Use onion powder, salt, and black pepper to bring out the best in your broccoli. Adjust to your liking for the perfect balance.
Experiment with baking. After steaming, spread the broccoli on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes. This can give it a slight crispiness and deepen the flavors.
How to Customize Longhorn Broccoli Recipe for Different Diets
To make Longhorn Broccoli fit different diets, think about the ingredients you use. For a vegetarian-friendly version, simply skip the cheese made with animal rennet and opt for cheeses like asiago or cheddar marked as vegetarian.
If you follow a dairy-free diet, switch the parmesan for a dairy-free cheese sauce or nutritional yeast. This gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
When you’re short on time, or if fresh vegetables aren’t available, using frozen broccoli is a great choice. Steam or microwave it before seasoning for the best results.
Add some variety by trying different flavors. A splash of balsamic vinegar can add a tangy twist. It complements the natural flavors of broccoli without adding too many calories.
For those who love extra cheese, consider adding a light cheddar cheese topping. You can melt it in with the broccoli for a creamy finish.
Remember to adjust seasonings as needed based on the variations you choose. Aim for balance and taste, making sure the broccoli shines in every bite.
Longhorn Broccoli Recipe Storage and Meal Prep Tips
To keep your Longhorn broccoli fresh and tasty, you’ll need to store it right. Once cooked, let the broccoli cool down before placing it in an airtight container. You can then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavor and texture, making it easy to reheat and enjoy later.
Reheating is simple. Just place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. If you prefer using the stove, a quick sauté in a little butter or olive oil over medium heat will do the trick. Both methods will keep the broccoli tender and delicious.
Meal prepping with Longhorn broccoli is a smart choice. Pair it with protein like chicken or tofu for balanced meals throughout the week. This broccoli dish is low in calories but rich in fiber and vitamins, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
List nutritional information on a small note card or a digital app, if possible. Knowing the nutritional value can help with portion control and tracking your intake, ensuring you get the most from your meals. Including this broccoli recipe in your weekly menu can boost your meals with a dash of flavor and essential nutrients.
Pairing Ideas for Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
When serving Longhorn Broccoli, think about what food pairs well with its flavors. The garlic and parmesan in the broccoli recipe make it a tasty side dish for many main courses.
Pair your broccoli with juicy grilled steak. The savory flavors of the steak complement the broccoli wonderfully. Roasted chicken is also a great choice, adding a tender and mild taste to your meal.
For a comforting option, serve the broccoli alongside mac and cheese. The creamy cheese of the mac and cheese goes perfectly with the broccoli’s garlic and parmesan notes.
If you’re focusing on adding more vegetables, consider mixing your broccoli with a side of roasted potatoes or carrots. These add a different texture and flavor to your plate.
In a dinner setting, you can also serve the broccoli with a light pasta dish. A simple olive oil or butter-based pasta enhances the broccoli without overwhelming its flavors.
For a fresh touch, serve it with a salad that includes ingredients like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers, which provide a refreshing contrast.
When considering serving suggestions, think about presentation. You can sprinkle extra parmesan on the broccoli or add a squeeze of lemon for a citrusy kick.
Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Equipment
- Knife and cutting board
- Steamer basket or saucepan with lid
- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon or tongs
- Microwave-safe dish (optional, for reheating)
Ingredients
- Fresh broccoli florets 3 cups
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced or 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp lemon juice optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Broccoli: Wash broccoli and cut into bite-sized florets.
- Steam Broccoli: Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan, place broccoli in a steamer basket over the water, cover, and steam for 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Season and Toss: In a large bowl, mix steamed broccoli with olive oil, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until well-coated.
- Optional Garnish: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and additional Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve hot as a side dish.
Notes
Nutrition Facts for 1 Serving (Approx.):
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g