Creamy Parmesan Broccoli
Creamy Parmesan Broccoli combines tender broccoli with a rich, cheesy sauce enhanced by green onions and toasted pine nuts, perfect for a comforting side dish or light entrée.
Ingredients
- 1 (1 lb.) package Green Giant Select frozen broccoli spears or florets ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream ⓘ
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. milk ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts, toasted ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 c. pine nuts or chopped walnuts, toasted* ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook broccoli as directed on package; drain.
- Place the cooked broccoli in an ungreased 12 x 8-inch (2-quart) baking dish or casserole.
- Drizzle the broccoli with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; toss to coat.
- In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and milk to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the broccoli and gently mix to combine.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce. If you're out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute. For a lighter version, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor, so don't skip that step. This dish can also be made with fresh broccoli if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Parmesan Broccoli pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a delightful dinner. It also works well as a side for Italian dishes, making it a versatile addition to your table. For more delicious ideas, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as it can make the broccoli mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Parmesan Broccoli contains roughly 469 calories, with 14g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli for this recipe. Just steam or blanch the broccoli for a few minutes until tender before mixing it with the sauce. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh broccoli will cook quicker than frozen.
Is there a vegan option for this dish?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives, such as cashew cream or vegan sour cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. This makes a delicious and creamy side that fits into vegetarian recipes too.
What can I serve with Creamy Parmesan Broccoli?
This dish is a fantastic side for grilled meats, like chicken or steak, and pairs well with pasta dishes. You can also serve it alongside a light quinoa salad or roasted potatoes for a comforting meal. Consider serving with Flambeed Bananas Foster for a sweet finish to your dinner.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).