If you’re in search of a delicious and healthy side dish, look no further than the Applebees Broccoli Recipe. This homemade version of the famous Applebee’s broccoli is sure to satisfy your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Made with simple and wholesome ingredients, this dish is both delicious and good for you. With just a few key ingredients, you can recreate the taste of Applebee’s broccoli right in your own kitchen.

In this article, we’ll provide you with the necessary ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some tips and tricks to make it even better. Whether you’re following a special diet, looking for a healthy side dish, or simply want to enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal, this recipe is perfect for you.

Applebees Broccoli Recipe

Why You Will Love This Recipe

1- Quick and Easy: Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe is incredibly easy to make, even for beginners in the Kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this tasty side dish quickly. It’s the perfect recipe for those hectic weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

2- Healthy and Nutritious: Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet. Broccoli is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for health-conscious eaters. With this recipe, you can enjoy a guilt-free and satisfying dish.

3- Versatile and Adaptable: Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. You can add extra ingredients like red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or sprinkle some lemon zest for a refreshing twist.

4- Impress Your Guests: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for your family, serving Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe will surely impress your guests. The vibrant green color, the enticing aroma, and the incredible taste will make everyone at the table ask for seconds.

5- Bursting with Flavor: This recipe takes simple ingredients like fresh broccoli, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese and transforms them into a flavor-packed sensation. Each bite is a delightful combination of savory, garlicky goodness that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Equipment & Ingredients

Equipment

Cutting board
Knife
Large skillet or frying pan
Spatula or tongs for stirring and flipping the broccoli
Grater for grating the Parmesan cheese

Ingredients

Fresh broccoli florets
Garlic cloves
Unsalted butter
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Applebees Broccoli Recipe

Step 1– Prepare the Broccoli: Start by washing the fresh broccoli florets thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Trim any tough stems and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Set aside.

Step 2– Sauté the Garlic: Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a generous amount of unsalted butter to the pan and let it melt. Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3– Cook the Broccoli: Add the prepared broccoli florets to the skillet with the garlic and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the broccoli gently to coat it evenly with the butter and garlic mixture. Cook the broccoli for about 5-7 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 4– Add Parmesan Cheese: Once the broccoli is cooked to perfection, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. The heat from the pan will help melt the cheese and create a deliciously cheesy coating on the broccoli. Feel free to adjust the amount of Parmesan cheese according to your preference.

Step 5– Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Applebee’s Broccoli to a serving dish or plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. This flavorful and nutritious side dish is now ready to be enjoyed.

Tips for making it perfect

1- Choose Fresh Broccoli: Opt for fresh broccoli florets that are vibrant green in color and firm to the touch. This will ensure a crisp and flavorful result.

2- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking the broccoli. You want it to be tender yet still retain a slight crunch. This will help preserve its nutritional value and vibrant color.

3- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spices or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

4- Grate Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It will melt beautifully and add a rich, savory taste to the dish. Avoid using pre-packaged grated cheese, as it may contain additives that affect the texture.

5- Serve Immediately: Applebee’s Broccoli is best enjoyed when served immediately after cooking. This will ensure that it retains its crispness and the flavors are at their peak.

6- Customize and Experiment: Add some chopped bacon or toasted almonds for extra crunch and flavor. You can also try different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, to give the dish a unique twist.

7- Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a larger group or want leftovers for later, feel free to double the recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a larger skillet or pan.

Health Benefits of Broccoli

1- Nutrient-rich: Broccoli is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. These nutrients support a healthy immune system, promote bone health, and help maintain proper blood pressure levels.

2- Fiber Powerhouse: Broccoli is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet, like broccoli, can support healthy digestion and contribute to weight management.

3- Antioxidant Boost: Broccoli contains antioxidants, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, which help protect your cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. These antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain types of cancer.

4- Heart-Healthy: The combination of fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients in broccoli can contribute to heart health. Regular consumption of broccoli may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

5- Weight Management: Broccoli is a low-calorie and nutrient-dense vegetable, making it a great choice for weight management. It provides essential nutrients while being low in calories, which can help you feel satisfied without consuming excess calories.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your overall dining experience:

1- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil over the cooked broccoli to add a pop of color and freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle herbaceous flavor.

2- Cheese Lovers Delight: For an extra cheesy touch, top the cooked broccoli with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a blend of your favorite cheeses. The melted cheese will create a gooey and irresistible coating that will take the dish to the next level.

3- Plating with Style: Arrange the cooked broccoli neatly on a serving platter or individual plates. You can create an appealing presentation by arranging the florets in a circular pattern or a fan shape. This adds a touch of elegance and makes the dish visually appealing.

4- Pair with Protein: Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe makes a fantastic side dish to accompany various proteins. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, seared salmon, or a juicy steak to create a well-balanced and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures will elevate the dining experience.

5- Add a Zesty Twist: Squeeze a wedge of fresh lemon over the cooked broccoli just before serving. The citrusy tang will brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing element to the dish. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance the taste and make it even more enjoyable.

6- Family-Style Sharing: Serve the Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe in a large bowl or platter at the center of the table for a family-style dining experience. This encourages interaction and allows everyone to help themselves to the delicious broccoli, fostering a sense of togetherness.

What to Serve with Applebees Broccoli Recipe

1- Grilled Chicken Breast: Serve the Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe as a nutritious side dish alongside a juicy and flavorful grilled chicken breast. The combination of the tender chicken and the vibrant broccoli creates a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

2- Baked Salmon: Pair the broccoli with a perfectly cooked piece of baked salmon. The richness of the salmon complements the freshness of the broccoli, creating a delicious and nutritious duo.

3- Steak: Serve the Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe as a tasty side dish to a succulent steak. The combination of the tender steak and the garlicky broccoli will satisfy your taste buds and make for a satisfying meal.

4- Roasted Potatoes: Add some roasted potatoes to your plate alongside the Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe. The crispy and flavorful potatoes complement the broccoli, creating a well-rounded and comforting meal.

5- Quinoa or Brown Rice: For a wholesome and nutritious option, serve the broccoli with a side of quinoa or brown rice. These grains provide a satisfying base that pairs well with the flavors of broccoli.

6- Garlic Bread: Complete your meal by serving some warm and buttery garlic bread alongside the Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe. The combination of the garlicky flavors and the broccoli creates a delightful contrast.

7- Mixed Green Salad: Add a refreshing element to your plate by serving a mixed green salad alongside the broccoli. The crispness of the salad and the freshness of the broccoli create a well-rounded and healthy meal.

Note- These are just a few ideas. You can try different things based on your preferences and dietary needs.

How to Store and Reheat Applebees Broccoli Recipe

1- Storage: Allow the cooked broccoli to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to maintain freshness. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

2- Reheat: You have 3 ways to reheat it.

Microwave: Place the desired amount of broccoli in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water to help create steam and prevent drying out. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the broccoli is heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become mushy.
Stovetop: Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the refrigerated broccoli and sauté for a few minutes until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. This method helps retain the texture and flavor of the broccoli.
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the broccoli in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Check periodically to avoid overcooking.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 131 kcal
Total Fat: 9.5 g
Saturated Fat: 5.7 g
Cholesterol: 23 mg
Sodium: 303 mg
Total Carbohydrate: 10.7 g
Dietary Fiber: 5 g
Sugars: 2.9 g
Protein: 5 g

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before cooking.

Is Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe suitable for special diets?

Yes, Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe can be suitable for various special diets. It is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a dairy-free alternative.

Can I make Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best to enjoy the dish fresh, you can prepare the sautéed broccoli ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving to maintain the best texture.

How long can I store the cooked broccoli in the refrigerator?

You can store the cooked Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing it.

Can I freeze Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe?

While it is possible to freeze the cooked broccoli, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s recommended to consume it fresh or within a few days of preparation for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion

Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe offers a delightful and healthy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, it can be easily made at home by home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish, a nutritious addition to your meal, or a dish to impress your guests, Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe is a fantastic choice. So, grab some fresh broccoli, follow the recipe, and savor the deliciousness of this restaurant-inspired dish right in your Kitchen.