Longhorn Steakhouse Broccoli Garlic

This Longhorn Steakhouse broccoli recipe is the perfect way to get everyone at your table reaching for another serving of greens. Fresh broccoli florets are quickly blanched then tossed with fragrant buttered garlic and showered in savory Parmesan for a simple yet impressive side dish that tastes like a restaurant favorite.

The first time I made this my husband actually asked for seconds of broccoli which almost never happens in our house. Now I find myself making an extra batch just for meal prep or lunch.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Broccoli: fresh florets give this recipe its star power look for firm stems and deep green color to ensure the best taste
• Butter: adds richness and a silky finish choose a good quality unsalted butter for cleaner flavor control
• Garlic: minced fresh garlic brings bold savory notes and should feel heavy and firm when picked
• Parmesan cheese: grated parmesan melts beautifully over the hot broccoli for that signature steakhouse touch opt for real block parmesan and grate it yourself for best texture
• Salt: enhances all the other flavors use kosher salt if possible for more even seasoning
• Black pepper: brings mild heat and sharpness grind it fresh if you can for the cleanest flavor

How to Make It

Prepare the Broccoli:

Fill a large saucepan with two cups of water and season generously with salt. Bring to a lively boil over high heat. Drop in the broccoli florets and cook uncovered for two to four minutes until they turn bright green and barely tender. Do not overcook

Drain and Rest:

Carefully pour the broccoli into a colander and let all water drain off. Set the saucepan aside but keep it handy for the next step

Make Garlic Butter:

Add the butter to the now-empty saucepan and melt over medium-low heat. Once melted add the minced garlic and cook gently for about one to two minutes stirring constantly until the garlic softens and becomes fragrant but does not brown

Combine and Finish:

Return the drained broccoli to the saucepan and toss thoroughly to coat the florets in the buttery garlic mixture. Sprinkle in the grated parmesan and toss everything together again so the cheese melts slightly

Season and Serve:

Taste the broccoli and sprinkle with extra salt and freshly ground pepper to your liking. Transfer to a warm serving bowl and offer right away

Parmesan is my favorite finishing touch as it brings everything together and adds just the right amount of saltiness. I still remember my daughter begging for more the first time she tasted those cheesy garlic broccoli florets and it is now a side dish we return to again and again.

Flavor Boosters

Try swapping in cauliflower or broccolini to mix up the texture and flavor. If dairy is an issue use olive oil in place of butter and nutritional yeast for a cheesy finish. Shaved aged asiago or pecorino romano work nicely if you are out of parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this broccoli with steak grilled chicken or salmon for a classic steakhouse experience. Add it to a grain bowl with brown rice and chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian meal. Toss cold leftovers with lemon zest and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing salad.

Creative Twists

Broccoli became a steakhouse staple for its hearty bite and ability to take on lots of flavor from butter and cheese. In spring use tender young broccoli and swap in chives or spring onions for a twist. This side dish fits right in for holiday feasts or as a healthy part of weeknight dinners.

Feedback from friends and family is always positive even among kids and picky eaters. Some even start requesting this broccoli over mashed potatoes at dinners. If you serve it at gatherings expect the bowl to be empty by the end.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I keep the broccoli crisp-tender?

Cook the broccoli only until bright green and just tender, about 2–4 minutes, then immediately drain to avoid overcooking.

→ What type of butter works best?

Use unsalted butter for more control over the seasoning, and adjust salt to your preference.

→ Can I substitute another cheese for parmesan?

Yes, pecorino romano or asiago also add a flavorful, salty finish similar to parmesan.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, cooked broccoli with garlic and butter can be refrigerated in an airtight container and reheated gently before serving.

→ What should I pair this broccoli with?

This side complements grilled steak, roasted chicken, or any hearty main. It's a versatile addition for almost any meal.