There’s something undeniably satisfying about crispy bits of cheese. Whether it’s the remnants left on a baking dish or the golden disks that form beneath tender vegetables, these crunchy morsels are irresistible. If you’re a fan of this delightful texture, then you’re in for a treat with the Crispy Parmesan Smashed Broccoli recipe.
Inspired by the Italian frico, a popular appetizer or snack made by baking or cooking grated cheese until it becomes cracker-like crisps, this recipe takes the concept to a whole new level. Instead of using cheese as a topping, it forms a savory platform for each piece of broccoli, creating a deep brown, crunchy matrix around it.
To achieve the perfect balance of tenderness and crunch, the broccoli is blanched until it’s just tender and still vibrant green. This step is crucial to ensure that excess moisture doesn’t interfere with the cheese crisping up later. If you prefer to prepare the broccoli in advance, you can blanch it and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just remember to plunge it into an ice bath after draining to halt the cooking process.
Once the broccoli is ready, small mounds of grated parmesan cheese are placed on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Each piece of broccoli is then placed on top of a mound and gently smashed with the bottom of a glass, flattening it slightly into the cheese. A brush of olive oil, a sprinkle of garlic powder and pepper, and it’s ready for the oven. No additional salt is needed as the cheese provides enough saltiness.
After just eight minutes in the oven, the cheese transforms into a beautiful golden brown halo around each broccoli floret. Allowing it to rest in the pan for ten minutes further enhances its crispiness, making it easy to scoop up with a spatula. This side dish pairs perfectly with any roasted protein and is a true delight for crispy cheese lovers.
So, if you’re looking to elevate your vegetable game and impress your guests, give the Crispy Parmesan Smashed Broccoli recipe a try. With its crunchy, golden, and savory goodness, it’s bound to be a hit at your next meal.
