Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Recipe

Introduction

Craving that iconic restaurant side dish? This Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli brings the bold, savory flavors of the steakhouse right to your table in just 15 minutes. It’s the perfect quick and easy side for busy weeknights, pairing beautifully with grilled proteins or standing alone as a satisfying snack. For another fast broccoli favorite, try this Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe.

Ingredients

This Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli recipe transforms simple florets into a savory side dish with a perfect balance of garlicky richness, nutty cheese, and a hint of lemon.

• 1 large head of broccoli (or 2 small), cut into florets
• 1½ tablespoons butter (or olive oil for lighter option)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
• Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
• Lemon zest for brightness
• Toasted breadcrumbs for crunch
• Vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for dairy-free version

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: This Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, getting you from prep to plate in well under 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep the Broccoli

Wash and thoroughly dry 1 pound of fresh broccoli crowns. Cut them into uniform florets, ensuring they are bite-sized for even cooking. Pat them completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a roasted texture instead of steaming.

Step 2 — Season the Broccoli

In a large bowl, toss the dried broccoli florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss until every piece is evenly and lightly coated.

Tip: For deeper flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 3 — Roast to Perfection

Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 18–22 minutes. The florets are done when the edges are crispy and browned, and the stems are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4 — Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the broccoli roasts, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add 3–4 finely minced garlic cloves and cook for just 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic brown and turn bitter.

Step 5 — Combine Broccoli and Sauce

As soon as the broccoli comes out of the oven, transfer it to a large serving bowl. Pour the warm garlic butter sauce over the hot florets and toss gently to coat every piece evenly. The heat from the broccoli will bloom the garlic flavor beautifully.

Step 6 — Add the Cheesy Finish

Immediately sprinkle the sauced broccoli with ¼ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of shredded Asiago cheese. Toss once more so the residual heat melts the cheese into a creamy, clinging coating.

Tip: For the best melt and flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and Asiago from a block, not the pre-shredded kind which contains anti-caking agents.

Step 7 — Serve Immediately

This Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is best served hot and fresh. Garnish with a little extra grated cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color and a bright finish. Enjoy it as a perfect side dish!

Nutritional Information

Calories	~180 kcal
Protein	~8 g
Carbohydrates	~12 g
Fat	~12 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~380 mg

Note: These values are estimates for one serving of this Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli, based on typical ingredients and portion sizes. Actual nutrition can vary with specific brands and measurements.

Healthier Alternatives

This Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is delicious as-is, but you can easily adapt it to fit dietary needs or health goals with these simple swaps.

• Lower-Carb Option — Replace the breadcrumbs with finely crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a crispy, keto-friendly coating.
• Gluten-Free Version — Use certified gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or the almond flour alternative mentioned above.
• Dairy-Free / Vegan — Substitute the butter with a high-quality plant-based butter (like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance) and use a nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan alternative for the cheese.
• Lower-Sodium Choice — Opt for unsalted butter, reduce or omit the added salt, and use a low-sodium parmesan cheese.
• Protein Boost — Toss the finished broccoli with crispy bacon bits, chopped walnuts, or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for added texture and protein.
• Air Fryer Method — For a lighter version with less oil, toss the coated broccoli in a light spray of avocado oil and air fry at 400°F until crispy, shaking halfway.
• Extra Veggie Power — This garlic parmesan seasoning works wonderfully on cauliflower florets, asparagus, or green beans for variety.
• Oil Alternative — For a different flavor profile, substitute the butter with an equal amount of extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli with a perfectly grilled steak or juicy chicken breast for a classic steakhouse-style meal at home.
• Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or parmesan risotto for a comforting and satisfying plate.
• Turn it into a hearty vegetarian main by tossing it with cooked pasta and a splash of the pan sauce for a quick garlic parmesan pasta.
• Offer it as a standout appetizer or shareable side at a casual gathering or game day spread.
• For a lighter lunch, top a bed of fresh greens with the warm broccoli and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette.

For the best presentation, serve this Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli immediately while the cheese is melty. Use a warm platter and garnish with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for a pop of color. The rich, savory flavors make it a versatile side for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasion meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw, unwashed broccoli. Fix: Always wash and thoroughly dry florets to prevent sogginess and ensure seasoning sticks.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking sheet. Fix: Spread florets in a single layer with space between them for proper caramelization, not steaming.
• Mistake: Skipping the oil toss. Fix: Coat broccoli evenly with a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or refined olive oil for crisp edges.
• Mistake: Adding garlic and cheese too early. Fix: Stir in minced garlic and Parmesan during the last 2-3 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
• Mistake: Underseasoning before roasting. Fix: Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking; it’s harder to season evenly after.
• Mistake: Roasting at too low a temperature. Fix: Use a hot oven (425°F) to quickly roast the interior while crisping the exterior.
• Mistake: Not checking for doneness. Fix: Pierce a stem with a fork; it should be tender-crisp, not mushy, for the best Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli texture.
• Mistake: Using pre-grated Parmesan from a canister. Fix: Freshly grate a block of Parmesan cheese for superior melt and flavor.
• Mistake: Serving immediately without resting. Fix: Let the broccoli rest for 2-3 minutes after baking so the flavors settle and the cheese adheres.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it has cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent excess moisture.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. This prevents clumping.
• Reheat: For best texture, reheat from the fridge in an air fryer or oven at 375°F until hot and crispy, about 5-8 minutes. Reheat frozen broccoli directly in the oven, adding a few extra minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

The cheese and garlic flavors in this side dish are best enjoyed fresh, but proper storage keeps it delicious for later meals.

Conclusion

This Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli is the perfect easy side dish to elevate any meal. For more delicious veggie-forward recipes, try our Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Recipe or Keto Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I make this Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli ahead of time?

For the best texture, we recommend serving this Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli immediately after cooking. The broccoli can become soggy if it sits in the creamy sauce for too long. You can prep the ingredients in advance to speed up the final cooking.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce, though it will be less rich. For a dairy-free version, try a full-fat, unsweetened canned coconut milk. The goal is to replicate the creamy, luxurious sauce that coats the Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli.

How do I get my broccoli crisp-tender and not mushy?

The key is to not overcook the broccoli. Blanch or steam it just until bright green and fork-tender, then immediately shock it in ice water to stop the cooking. This ensures your Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli has the perfect bite before being tossed in the warm garlic parmesan sauce.