Here’s how to cook broccoli so that it turns out perfectly every time. Simply top it with a little butter and your favorite seasonings!
While visiting with my aunt recently, she told me that my uncle says he has the perfect method for how to cook broccoli figured out. It is simple to do using cookware you already have in your kitchen. If you follow these basic steps, you will get perfectly cooked broccoli every time.
In This Post
Cooked Broccoli Ingredients
The ingredients needed for making broccoli are simple. You can swap out the seasonings from what we used to whatever your family prefers or change them depending on what you are serving the broccoli with.
- Broccoli: We used fresh broccoli bunches. You can also purchase broccoli that is already cut into florets if you prefer. Frozen broccoli would work, too, but your results will be different.
- Butter: For this recipe, we put butter on the cooked broccoli, but sometimes we use olive oil instead.
- Salt and Pepper: We seasoned it simply with kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper. Other seasonings to try are garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, or red pepper flakes.
How To Cook Broccoli
This is our easy method for how to cook broccoli. Give it a try, and you’ll want to make it this way every time!
Prepare: Rinse and drain the broccoli bunches. Cut off the stalks and then cut the broccoli into florets.
Cook: Place the florets in a pot and add enough water to cover the bottom of the pot fully. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
Cover the pot with a lid, turn the heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Season: Remove the broccoli from the heat and drain the water. Stir in the butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Toppings: Add any additional toppings you want. Try a drizzle of lemon juice, a sprinkle of freshly grated or shredded parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of cheese sauce.
Other Ways To Make It
Although this is our favorite way to make broccoli, we wanted to share a couple of additional methods that we sometimes use.
Microwave Broccoli
Wondering how to cook broccoli in the microwave? Put the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl and add enough water to cover the bottom of the bowl. Cover the bowl and cook the broccoli on high for 3-4 minutes, until tender.
Oven Roasted Broccoli
Oven roasted vegetables are fantastic! Here’s how to cook broccoli in the oven. Coat the broccoli florets with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the broccoli out in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake at 425˚F for 50-60 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Store leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months.
Yes, you can reheat it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven.
Wondering what to do with cooked broccoli?
Once your broccoli is done, lightly coat it with butter or olive oil and top with your favorite seasonings. You could also top it with melted American cheese or a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan. It can also be added to soups and casseroles.
For the best results, bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer the broccoli for 10 minutes.
More Broccoli Recipes
- Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is topped with buttery Ritz crackers!
- This Chicken Stir Fry Recipe includes veggies and chicken.
- Our Vegetable Casserole recipe is topped with French fried onions!
- This Beef and Broccoli recipe is a family-friendly meal.
How To Cook Broccoli
Video
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cut off the stem and cut the broccoli into florets.
- Put the florets in a pot and add enough water to cover the bottom of the pot. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
- Turn the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer the for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Drain the water from the pot. Add the butter and stir to coat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
