Are you a broccoli lover looking for new ways to incorporate this nutritious vegetable into your meals? Look no further! We’ve compiled 18 mouthwatering broccoli main dish recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. From classic pasta dishes to international stir-fries, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and cheesy or bold and spicy, our selection of broccoli-based meals is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. And the best part? These recipes are all incredibly easy to make, so you can get creative in the kitchen without breaking a sweat.
In this article, we’ll be diving into some of the most delicious and innovative ways to enjoy broccoli as the star of the show. From comforting casseroles to healthy stir-fries, there’s something for everyone on this list. So let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of broccoli main dishes!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and broccoli with a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broccoli to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large saucepan, whisk together flour and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and creamy sauce. Toss well to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli with Shrimp
Brighten up your plate with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, combine garlic, lemon juice, and remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small bowl.
6. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the garlic-lemon mixture.
7. After the broccoli has roasted for 10 minutes, add the shrimp to the baking sheet with the broccoli.
8. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the goodness of chicken, broccoli, and cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz or saltines)
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook chicken, broccoli, and paprika in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the crackers in an even layer. Top with the chicken mixture, then spoon the creamy sauce over it.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, followed by the remaining crackers.
6. Dot the top with butter and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Broccoli Stir-Fry with Tofu
This recipe combines the spicy kick of Szechuan pepper with the crunch of broccoli and the tenderness of tofu, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour into the wok or skillet.
5. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Transform ordinary baked potatoes into a flavorful and satisfying meal by filling them with a creamy broccoli and cheddar mixture.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, chives, or bacon bits for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the potatoes are baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add the chopped broccoli and cook until heated through.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. When the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
8. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for the filling.
9. Divide the broccoli-cheddar mixture among the potatoes and spoon it into the cavities.
10. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Garlic Butter Broccoli and Beef Skillet
A hearty, one-pan meal that combines the flavors of garlic butter, tender beef, and crispy broccoli.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
7. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in any accumulated juices.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle on top and place under the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Broccoli and Mushroom Quiche with Gruyere
A savory twist on the classic quiche, this recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and broccoli with the richness of Gruyère cheese. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté the broccoli, mushrooms, and garlic until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, and Gruyère cheese.
5. Arrange the cooked vegetable mixture in the pie crust. Pour in the egg mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pan Broccoli and Chicken Alfredo
A creamy and satisfying one-pan dish that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Bacon Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting, creamy pasta dish packed with the flavors of crispy bacon, steamed broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add broccoli florets to the same skillet and steam until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
7. Add cooked macaroni, crispy bacon, and steamed broccoli to the pot. Stir until combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Broccoli with Salmon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of honey with the spicy kick of sriracha, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that pairs perfectly with grilled salmon. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Grill broccoli for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, mix honey and sriracha sauce in a small bowl.
5. Brush the glaze on the grilled broccoli during the last minute of cooking.
6. Grill salmon fillets for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve glazed broccoli alongside grilled salmon.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Chickpea Coconut Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the health benefits of broccoli and chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli and chickpeas. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Elevate the classic stuffed shell recipe by adding some green goodness and melted cheese! This comforting casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine steamed broccoli, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the broccoli mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Ham Cheese Frittata
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of broccoli, ham, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a fluffy egg frittata.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 slices cooked ham, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking spray or oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Push the broccoli to one side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Add the diced ham to the eggs and stir to combine.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the egg mixture.
7. Use a spatula to gently fold the frittata in half, then transfer it to a baking dish.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the frittata is cooked through.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Broccoli and Pork Fried Rice
A sweet and savory fusion of Japanese-inspired flavors, this recipe combines tender broccoli and juicy pork with flavorful fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 1/2 pound boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove pork from the pan, then add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and broccoli.
5. Cook broccoli for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
6. Return pork to the pan, along with cooked rice, teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Stir-fry everything together until combined and heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Bell Pepper Beef Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and healthy broccoli, all cooked to perfection in a wok or large skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, and garlic to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin
A creamy, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the cooked vegetable mixture in an even layer.
5. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the vegetables.
6. Pour heavy cream over the top, then season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Broccoli and Turkey Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the crunch of broccoli with the savory flavor of turkey.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked broccoli and rice. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Broccoli and Shrimp Orzo Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta, cooked al dente
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, shrimp, and broccoli.
5. Drizzle pesto sauce over the top and toss to coat.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 18 mouth-watering broccoli main dish recipes! From creamy pasta dishes to savory stir-fries, and from casseroles to quiches, there’s something for everyone. Discover how broccoli can be transformed into a delicious centerpiece, paired with ingredients like shrimp, chicken, beef, pork, salmon, and more. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy, spicy, or citrusy flavors, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking and make your taste buds do the happy dance!
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