This low carb 3-ingredient parmesan smashed broccoli is one of those simple little tricks that somehow feels fancy enough for a dinner party. My husband actually started making these cheesy roasted veggies whenever we had friends over, and there are never any leftovers. The broccoli gets flattened so the edges crisp up, and the parmesan melts into a golden, lacy crust. It’s budget-friendly, kid-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something that looks and tastes special.
Serve these crispy parmesan smashed broccoli florets straight from the foil-lined tray while they’re hot and bubbly. They pair really well with simple proteins like grilled chicken, baked salmon, or a seared steak. For a more casual spread, set the tray in the middle of the table with toothpicks or small tongs and let everyone snack on them like cheesy veggie “chips.” A fresh green salad or sliced tomatoes with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the cheese, and if you’re not strictly low carb, a side of crusty bread is great for swiping up any crispy cheese bits left on the pan.
3-Ingredient Parmesan Smashed Broccoli
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds fresh broccoli florets (cut into medium pieces)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese (about 3 ounces), plus a little extra if you like
Directions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then lightly grease the foil with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray so the cheesy edges release easily.
Rinse the broccoli florets under cool water and pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. The drier they are, the crispier they will get in the oven.
Place the broccoli florets in a large bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil and toss well until every piece is lightly coated. If any florets look dry, add a tiny splash more oil and toss again.
Spread the oiled broccoli out onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece so they have room to crisp instead of steam.
