If you love Longhorn Steakhouse’s signature Garlic Parmesan Broccoli, you’re going to swoon over this copycat version. It’s tender-crisp broccoli tossed in a buttery, garlicky parmesan sauce that makes you want to eat your greens on repeat. The perfect side dish that walks the line between indulgent and fresh.
With just a few pantry staples and fresh broccoli florets, this side comes together in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re planning a steak dinner at home or looking to dress up a weeknight meal, this buttery garlic broccoli will elevate any plate.
What Kind of Broccoli Should I Use?
Fresh broccoli florets work best in this recipe because they offer that ideal balance of crunch and tenderness once steamed. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can also be used—just be sure to thaw and pat it dry to avoid a watery finish.
Ingredients for the Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick
How To Make the Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
Step 1: Steam the Broccoli
Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and place a steamer basket inside. Bring to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Cover and steam for about 4-5 minutes until bright green and just tender. Avoid overcooking to keep that fresh, crisp texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Don’t let it brown—this keeps the flavor smooth and rich.
Step 3: Toss It All Together
Add the steamed broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Sprinkle the Parmesan over the top and gently stir to combine. Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately while warm and melty.
How to Serve and Store Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
Serve this as a side dish alongside grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or creamy pastas. It pairs wonderfully with hearty mains like my Marry Me Chicken Pasta or even a cozy dish of Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts.
To store leftovers, let the broccoli cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or toss in a skillet with a splash of water to steam it back to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but make sure it’s thawed and well-drained. The texture won’t be quite as crisp, but the flavors will still shine.
What kind of Parmesan works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded can be used, but may not melt as smoothly.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can swap the butter for olive oil and use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and high in fat, perfect for a keto side dish.
How do I keep the broccoli bright green?
Don’t oversteam it! 4 to 5 minutes is all you need for tender-crisp results.
Can I roast the broccoli instead?
Yes! Roasting gives it a deeper flavor. Toss florets in olive oil and roast at 425°F for 20 minutes before tossing with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
Want More Side Dish Ideas?
If you’re loving this flavorful broccoli, here are a few more crave-worthy veggie sides to check out:
- Giant Zucchini Parmesan for a hearty twist on baked zucchini.
- Broccoli Salad for a creamy, crunchy raw version of this green favorite.
- Oven Roasted Root Vegetables to bring out sweet, earthy flavors.
- Mexican Potatoes when you’re craving bold and spicy.
- Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes for that cheesy, golden goodness.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest veggie board so you can bring restaurant-quality sides home anytime.
And I want to hear from you! Did you try roasting the broccoli instead? Add extra garlic? Swap in Romano cheese? Comment below with your twist or tips.
You can also follow me over on Pinterest @NinaDishes where I share all my latest creations and daily kitchen inspo.
Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender-crisp broccoli tossed in a buttery garlic sauce and finished with freshly grated Parmesan—this Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli brings steakhouse flavor straight to your table. Quick, simple, and full of savory goodness, it’s the perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and place a steamer basket inside. Bring to a boil and add broccoli florets. Cover and steam for 4–5 minutes until bright green and just tender.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
3. Add steamed broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat in garlic butter.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and stir gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and cracked black pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve immediately while warm and melty.
Notes
Don’t oversteam the broccoli—aim for bright green and slightly crisp.
Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best melt and flavor.
For a roasted twist, use oven-roasted broccoli instead of steamed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Steamed + Sautéed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: garlic parmesan broccoli, steakhouse broccoli, copycat Longhorn broccoli
