How to cook frozen broccoli is something I've done a hundred times, and I'll tell you that roasting it in a hot oven is the move when you have a little extra time. The high heat pulls out the moisture and gives you broccoli with crispy edges and a roasted flavor that tastes so much better than steamed. When you're in a hurry, the microwave works just fine too; it's all about knowing which method to use and when.
I keep a bag of frozen broccoli in the freezer at all times because it's one of the most useful things to have on hand for easy weeknight dinners. It pairs with just about everything, it's ready in minutes, and it never goes bad sitting in the fridge. I started making it this way after too many batches that came out soft and watery, and once I figured out the roasting method, I never went back to boiling it.
If you're looking for more easy vegetable sides, my easy roasted broccoli is a great next step when you want to use fresh broccoli with even more flavor. Both are weeknight staples in my house.
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Ingredients
- Frozen broccoli. Any brand will work for this recipe.
- Salt & Pepper. This will be to taste. I recommend fine sea salt or Kosher salt.
- Olive Oil. I prefer cooking with extra virgin olive oil but can use avocado oil or the oil of your choice!
See the recipe card below for the remaining ingredients and quantities.
Method 1: Roasted Frozen Broccoli (Crispy & Flavorful)
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread frozen broccoli florets in a single layer (no need to thaw!). Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt & pepper. Toss to coat.
- Step 2: Roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
Method 2: Microwave Steamed Frozen Broccoli (Soft & Tender)
- Step 1: Place the florets in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 inch of water. Cover and microwave for 5 minutes. Drain the water.
- Step 2: Add olive oil, salt & pepper. Enjoy!
Sarah's Top Tips
- Vegetables do not need to be bland, "Say it louder for the people in the back!". But really, adding oil and seasoning to your broccoli will keep you going back for more.
- Feel free to add more spices such as garlic powder and onion powder.
- For even more flavor, add butter and a squeeze of lemon juice after microwaving!
What to Serve with Frozen Broccoli
Frozen broccoli makes a great quick side dish, but it's even better when paired with a main course. Try serving it with:
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Linguine - Toss broccoli into the sauce for a complete meal.
- Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon - Oven-roasted broccoli and salmon are a great pairing.
- Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs - A delicious, easy-to-make chicken dish with crispy skin and smoky barbecue flavor.
More Easy Side Dishes
Did you make this recipe? Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating and a comment below-I'd love to hear how it turned out! THANK YOU!
The Easiest Way to Cook Frozen Broccoli
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See the full post for extra tips and photos
Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Roasted
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Place broccoli on the sheet pan, pour the olive oil on top and season with salt and pepper. Use your hands to make sure all of the broccoli is seasoned.
- Place in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes or until slightly browned.
Microwave
- Place broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl. Pour in about 1-inch of water.
- Cover the bowl and place in the microwave. Set the timer for 5 minutes.
- Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave. Drain the water and season with olive oil, salt and pepper.
Sarah's Tips
- Vegetables do not need to be bland, "Say it louder for the people in the back!". But really, adding oil and seasoning to your broccoli will keep you going back for more.
- Feel free to add more spices such as garlic powder and onion powder.
- For even more flavor, add butter and a squeeze of lemon juice after microwaving!
Nicolette says
I made the oven version last night and it was SO quick and easy! Perfect recipe for busy weeknights!!
Sarah Holt says
Hi Nicolette! Yayy so happy it turned out great for you and was so easy 🙂