The Addictive “Crack” Broccoli

Steps

1. 1

   Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 375°F (190 °C) (190°C (375 °F)). Use a baking dish large enough to hold the broccoli in one even layer.

2. 2

   Lightly spray the bottom and sides of the baking dish with olive oil, or brush it with a thin coating of olive oil.

3. 3

   Add the frozen broccoli florets directly to the prepared dish. Do not thaw them first. Spread them into an even layer without mixing or compressing them.

4. 4

   Season the broccoli generously and evenly with the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

5. 5

   Add a heavy, even layer of grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned broccoli, covering as much of the surface as possible.

6. 6

   Scatter the Italian-style breadcrumbs over the Parmesan in a thick, even layer. Do not stir or mix the layers.

7. 7

   Spray the top with olive oil, or drizzle the oil evenly over the breadcrumbs and cheese so the crust can brown.

8. 8

   Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, keeping the layered broccoli undisturbed.

9. 9

   Bake, covered, for 30 minutes. The broccoli will steam and soften while the cheese begins to melt.

   Start 30-minute timer
10. 10

    Carefully remove the foil. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for another 25–30 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the Parmesan-breadcrumb topping is browned and crisp.

    Start 30-minute timer
11. 11

    If the topping needs more color, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2–4 minutes, watching continuously, until the top is deeply golden and crunchy. Do not walk away, because breadcrumbs and cheese can burn quickly.

    Start 4-minute timer
12. 12

    Let the broccoli rest for a few minutes, then serve hot, scooping through the crisp crust and tender broccoli beneath.