Name: Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups fresh broccoli florets (1.5 pounds or 24 ounces, cut into bite-sized pieces); ¼ cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; ¼ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 24 reviews

If you’re looking for a simple, comforting side dish that packs a punch of flavor, you’re going to love this Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe. It’s one of those recipes I always come back to because it’s easy, quick, and turns ordinary broccoli into something fan-freaking-tastic — crispy, garlicky, and just smoky enough from the paprika. Stick around and I’ll walk you through how to make this perfect roasted broccoli every single time.

❤️

Why This Recipe Works

High Heat Roasting: Roasting at 450°F caramelizes the broccoli, giving it crisp edges and rich flavor.
Balanced Seasonings: Garlic powder combined with smoked paprika and fresh pepper creates a smoky, savory kick.
Even Coating: Tossing the broccoli in oil and spices twice ensures every bite is flavorful.
Simple Techniques: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip this up any night of the week with confidence.

Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika, roasted broccoli side dish, garlic roasted broccoli, smoky roasted broccoli, easy roasted broccoli recipe - A dark rectangular baking tray holds a single layer of cooked broccoli florets. The broccoli pieces are bright green with some slightly browned tips, showing a crispy texture. The florets vary in size and shape, spread unevenly across the tray. In the bottom right corner, a black spatula is lifting some broccoli. The tray rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe plays its part to create a standout side. The fresh broccoli provides that satisfying bite, the olive oil helps with roasting and flavor, and the seasoning blend elevates it into something special.

Fresh broccoli florets: Choose firm, vibrant green broccoli with tight buds for the best texture and flavor.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the seasonings stick; extra virgin olive oil works great if you want a fruity note, but avocado oil is an easy swap.
Garlic powder: Using powder instead of fresh garlic ensures even coating and avoids burnt bits while delivering big flavor.
Sea salt: Enhances the broccoli’s natural flavor and balances the spices.
Paprika: Smoked paprika is my personal favorite here for a subtle smoky warmth, but sweet paprika also works well.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity, freshly ground always tastes best!

📝

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love making this recipe my own depending on what mood I’m in or what I have on hand — and you should tweak it too! It’s forgiving and versatile, so don’t be afraid to adjust the garlic, swap in smoked paprika, or even add a pinch of chili flakes if you want a little heat.

Add some zest: Once roasted, toss the broccoli with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest — it brightens everything up beautifully in my experience.
Use fresh garlic: I sometimes swap garlic powder for finely minced fresh garlic, adding it either before roasting or tossing it on halfway through for a bolder garlic flavor.
Make it spicy: Sprinkle a little cayenne or red pepper flakes into the seasoning blend for a subtle kick I adore.
Try parmesan: Grated parmesan sprinkled over the finished broccoli is an indulgent touch I can’t resist, especially for weekend dinners.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

First things first — preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius). This high heat is essential to get that perfect roast. Meanwhile, grease a large baking sheet lightly with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking — I like greasing because it helps crisp the broccoli a bit more evenly.

Step 2: Mix Your Spices

In a small bowl, whisk together your garlic powder, sea salt, paprika, and freshly ground black pepper. This easy spice mix is the flavor powerhouse of this recipe, so mixing it well ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Step 3: Coat the Broccoli

Place your fresh broccoli florets in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss well so the florets get evenly coated — this oil will aid roasting and help the spices stick. Then sprinkle half your spice mix over the broccoli, toss again to distribute, and repeat with the remaining spices for even coverage. Trust me, this two-step seasoning method makes all the difference!

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Spread your seasoned broccoli out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This space is critical — too crowded and the broccoli steams instead of roasting. Bake at 450°F for 14-15 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Keep an eye on them—they should be tender with crisp, slightly charred edges. Depending on your floret size, you may need a bit more or less time.

Step 5: Optional Broil for Extra Crisp

If you want an extra crispy finish—especially if you’re using frozen broccoli—broil the florets for 1-2 minutes at the end. Just be careful not to burn them! I only use this step when I want that golden-crisp texture that really makes a plate sing.

Pro Tips for Making Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe

💡

Cut Size Matters: Keep broccoli florets roughly the same size for even cooking and perfect texture.
Don’t Overcrowd: Give each floret space on the pan so they roast instead of steam, leading to crispier edges.
Toss Halfway: Stir the broccoli once midway through roasting to avoid burning and encourage even browning.
Use Fresh Spices: I find freshly ground pepper and fresh paprika make a big difference in flavor intensity.

How to Serve Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe

Garnishes

I often finish off my roasted broccoli with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a bit of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Sometimes I add lemon zest or toasted pine nuts for a fun crunch and brightness. These garnishes take the dish from simply delicious to absolutely crave-worthy.

Side Dishes

This roasted broccoli pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or alongside any cozy pasta. I’ve also served it with baked potatoes for a simple, nourishing weeknight dinner that always impresses.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I love arranging the broccoli on a long platter with lemon wedges on the side and a drizzle of garlic aioli or tahini sauce for dipping. It makes for a stunning and shareable veggie centerpiece that guests always ask about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover roasted broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge, where it keeps well for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to avoid sogginess from steam.

Freezing

While I personally prefer fresh for this recipe, you can freeze roasted broccoli in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray before transferring it to a freezer bag. It won’t be quite as crisp after thawing, but it’s good for adding reheated veggies to soups or casseroles.

Reheating

When reheating, I usually pop leftovers in the oven at 375°F on a baking sheet for 4-5 minutes to bring back some crispiness. The microwave works if you’re in a hurry, but it softens the texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe?

Yes! I’ve used frozen broccoli many times with great results. Just spread it out on your baking sheet and warm it in the preheated oven for 1-2 minutes first before adding the olive oil and spices. This step helps avoid soggy broccoli and ensures better roasting.
Is garlic powder necessary or can I use fresh garlic?

Garlic powder is preferred because it evenly coats the broccoli and crisps nicely without burning. However, you can use minced fresh garlic if you add it partway through roasting or toss it on at the end to avoid bitterness.
How do I get crispy broccoli edges without burning?

Keep broccoli florets evenly sized and spaced out on the pan to help air circulate. Toss the broccoli halfway through roasting to promote even cooking. Also, broiling briefly at the end can give extra crispness without burning if you watch carefully.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free as long as you skip any cheese garnishes. It’s a perfect flavorful side for any diet.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe is one of those go-to dishes that transforms simple veggies into something full of flavor and texture you’ll crave again and again. I’ve found it’s perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough for company too, and I promise you’ll enjoy making it just as much as you enjoy eating it. So the next time you want a quick veggie side that feels special, give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!

Oven Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Paprika Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: Julia
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Oven Roasted Broccoli recipe delivers perfectly baked broccoli florets coated in olive oil and seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Roasted at high heat, the broccoli develops a crispy texture and rich flavor, making it a delicious and healthy side dish suitable for any meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 cups fresh broccoli florets (1.5 pounds or 24 ounces, cut into bite-sized pieces)
¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius) and grease a large baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Mix Spices. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, sea salt, paprika, and freshly ground black pepper. Set this spice mixture aside.
Prepare Broccoli. Place the broccoli florets in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Stir well to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
Season Broccoli. Sprinkle half of the spice mixture over the broccoli and stir to coat evenly. Then add the remaining spice mix and stir again until the broccoli is thoroughly seasoned.
Arrange on Baking Sheet. Spread the seasoned broccoli in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet to allow for proper roasting.
Roast the Broccoli. Roast in the preheated oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even cooking. The broccoli should be nicely roasted and tender-crisp.
Optional Broil for Crispiness. If desired, broil the broccoli for 1-2 minutes at the end of roasting to achieve extra crispiness, especially useful if using frozen broccoli.
Serve Immediately. Remove the broccoli from the oven and serve it while hot for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Using Frozen Broccoli: Spread frozen broccoli in an even layer on the baking sheet and warm it in the preheated oven for 1-2 minutes before roasting. Then drizzle with olive oil, add spices, and roast as directed.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen florets. Avocado oil works well instead of olive oil. Minced garlic may replace garlic powder, although powder gives a better crispy coating. Any variety of paprika can be used, smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor. Use freshly ground black pepper for best taste.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating Tips: Microwave to heat quickly but expect softer texture. For a crispier result, reheat in a 375 degrees Fahrenheit oven on a baking sheet for 4-5 minutes.