If you have ever enjoyed Longhorn Steakhouse’s famous broccoli, then you are in for a treat with this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe. It perfectly captures that crave-worthy balance of roasted tender broccoli, garlicky richness, and the melty, salty Parmesan cheese that makes each bite utterly irresistible. This homemade version lets you enjoy that same bold flavor right from your own oven, with simple ingredients and an easy process that will become a go-to side dish for weeknights or special dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe plays a vital role, from the hearty vegetable base to the seasonings and cheese that elevate the dish. Using fresh, high-quality components ensures you get the authentic flavors that Longhorn fans love.
- Broccoli florets: The star of the dish, fresh broccoli ensures crisp-tender texture and vibrant green color after roasting.
- Butter or olive oil: Adds richness and helps the broccoli crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the broccoli with savory depth, creating a mouthwatering aroma.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the taste perfectly.
- Black pepper: Provides subtle heat and complexity to the seasoning.
- Onion powder: Adds a sweet, mild pungency that complements the garlic without overpowering.
- Lemon juice (optional): A light drizzle adds a bright, fresh zing that lifts the whole dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan imparts that iconic, nutty, savory topping that melts beautifully on the warm broccoli.
- Optional add-ins: Crushed red pepper flakes for heat, lemon zest for extra brightness, toasted breadcrumbs for crunch, or vegan Parmesan/nutritional yeast for a plant-based twist.
How to Make Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is important to roast the broccoli properly, caramelizing the edges and locking in flavor. Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
Step 2: Toss the Broccoli with Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets with butter or olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Toss everything together until the florets are evenly coated. This step is where flavor starts to build, coating each piece with that garlicky, buttery goodness that will roast nicely.
Step 3: Roast Until Tender and Browned
Spread the broccoli mixture out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. The broccoli should become tender but still have a slight bite, with gorgeous browned, crispy edges. This roasting process transforms the humble vegetable into something truly special.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Once the broccoli is roasted, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, just enough time for the cheese to melt into a luscious, gooey topping that adds a salty, nutty flavor dimension.
Step 5: Finish with a Bright Drizzle
After removing the broccoli from the oven, drizzle with fresh lemon juice if you like. This small touch provides a vibrant contrast to the richness of the cheese and butter, balancing the flavors beautifully before serving your Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe.
How to Serve Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
For a final flourish, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes to introduce some spice or lemon zest for extra citrus brightness. Toasted breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, making this side dish even more texturally interesting.
Side Dishes
This Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe pairs wonderfully with hearty main courses like grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or baked fish. It’s also fantastic alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, making your entire meal feel balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this broccoli in a rustic cast-iron skillet straight from the oven keeps it warm and visually enticing. You could also toss it into a warm pasta salad or top a grain bowl for a nutritious and flavorful boost any time of the day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient side to enjoy later.
Freezing
While you can freeze this broccoli, it’s best eaten fresh for optimal texture. If freezing, cool the cooked broccoli completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 1 month and expect some softening upon reheating.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, place the broccoli on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps preserve the roasted crispiness better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Fresh broccoli is best for roasting since it holds texture and flavor much better, but you can use frozen if needed—just be sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before tossing with the seasonings.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this dish?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for olive oil and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy, savory flavor without dairy.
How spicy is this recipe?
The basic recipe is mild, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes to give it a nice kick if you enjoy some heat.
Can this broccoli be cooked on the stovetop instead of roasted?
While roasting gives the best crispy texture and caramelization, you can sauté the broccoli with garlic and seasonings in a pan for a softer, quicker version—just won’t have that roasted crunch.
What can I serve instead of lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of lemon zest can add a similar bright note to finish the dish beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe truly brings the flavors and comfort of a beloved restaurant side into your home kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will ask for again. Give it a try and enjoy the rich taste of that classic roasted broccoli with a cheesy twist anytime you want!
Print
Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Copycat Longhorn Broccoli recipe features tender roasted broccoli florets enhanced with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, mirroring the popular restaurant style. The broccoli is seasoned and roasted until slightly browned and tender, then topped with melted Parmesan and a hint of lemon juice for bright flavor. Ideal as a healthy and flavorful side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1½ tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon 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
- Lemon zest
- Toasted breadcrumbs
- Vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for roasting the broccoli evenly.
- Prepare Broccoli Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets with butter or olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Toss thoroughly to coat each floret with the seasonings and fat.
- Roast Broccoli: Spread the seasoned broccoli evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender and develops a slight browning for enhanced flavor.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Remove the broccoli from the oven and evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and form a delicious topping.
- Finish and Serve: Once out of the oven, drizzle the roasted broccoli with lemon juice if desired, adding a refreshing brightness before serving immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version or to reduce saturated fat.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before roasting.
- Adding lemon zest or toasted breadcrumbs on top adds extra texture and flavor.
- Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to make this dish vegan-friendly.
- Watch the broccoli towards the end of roasting to prevent burning, as oven temperatures may vary.
