How to Steam Broccoli (2024)

If you ask anyone on the team, they’ll tell you that broccoli is my personal favorite vegetable. You can make it in so many different ways. You can make grilled broccoli, sautéed broccoli, roasted broccoli, air fryer broccoli, or steamed broccoli.

Steamed broccoli is extremely fool proof and the healthiest way to cook broccoli all thanks to just 2 ingredients — broccoli florets and water! In this post, we’ll teach you how to steam broccoli in the microwave and on the stove-top in order to get that bright green, tender, NOT mushy broccoli.

Steaming Broccoli – 3 Ways!

Want crisp-tender, vibrant green broccoli every time? Here are 3 ways to steam broccoli to make sure you get perfectly cooked broccoli every time!

How to Steam fresh Broccoli in a Steamer Basket

Our preferred method of steaming broccoli is in a pot with a steamer basket. It’s fool-proof and the broccoli comes out fork-tender perfect every time!

1. Add water to a large saucepan and place a steam basket into the pot. Then, add the broccoli florets into the steam basket.
2. Turn the burner to high and bring the water to a boil.
3. Then, cover the pot and let the water continue to boil for 4 minutes. During this time, the broccoli will steam.
4. After 4 minutes, remove the broccoli from the steam basket and enjoy.

Try it!

Always Pan

The Always Pan is our favorite pan for sauteing, steaming, frying, and simmering. It’s a nonstick pan that we highly recommend.

Buy now!

See Also

Cream of Mushroom SoupEasy Refrigerator Pickled Okra-Little Sprouts Learning20 Low Carb Beef Recipes for Meat LoversAir Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe - Savory Nothings

How to Steam Broccoli without a steamer basket (in a pot/pan)

Looking to steam broccoli on the stove top without a steamer basket? All you need is a pan or a pot with a lid and you’re good to go.

1. Add water to a large saucepan and then place the broccoli florets on top.
2. Turn the burner to high and bring the water to a boil.
3. Cover the pot and let the water continue to boil for 4 minutes. During this time the broccoli will steam.
4. After 4 minutes, carefully strain the water from the broccoli and enjoy.

How to Steam Broccoli in the Microwave

Don’t have access to a stove? No problem! Here’s how to steam broccoli in microwave.

1. Pour water into a large microwave-safe bowl. Then, add the broccoli florets to the bowl.
2. Microwave the broccoli on high for 2 minutes.Then microwave for an additional 2 minutes on high.
3. Carefully remove the broccoli from the microwave (it will be let) let cool for a few moments and enjoy.

How to Flavor Cooked Broccoli

While basic steamed broccoli on its own is sometimes all you need, we also love flavoring it to pair with whatever we are eating. Check out some ideas below:

Fat

• Butter
• Olive oil
• Ghee

Seasonings/Citrus

• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Red pepper flakes
• Lemon zest
• Everything But the Bagel Seasoning

How long does cooked broccoli last in the fridge?

Got leftover cooked broccoli? Let it cool completely and then transfer it into an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.

Freezer Directions

1. Let broccoli cool completely.
2. Then, remove as much moisture from it as possible by patting it with paper towel.
3. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it out so that the florets aren’t touching.
4. Freeze for around 2 hours.
5. Once frozen, transfer into an airtight container or gallon-size plastic bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Make it a Meal! Serving Suggestions:

Steamed broccoli also pairs quite nicely as a healthy side dish with so many different things such as chicken breast, steak, or pork roast.

Baked Pork Tenderloin:The most delicious baked pork tenderloin recipe made with an incredible mushroom gravy all in one dish!

Grilled Steak:Get tender, juicy, perfectlygrilled steakwith this “how to grill steak” post. We’ll give you the best tips and tricks forgrilling steaklike a professional.

Pan Fried Chicken:Pan Seared Chicken Breastis an easy weeknight meal that takes less than 30 minutes to whip up and only a few ingredients.

Baked Salmon:This perfectly cookedoven baked salmon in foilwill give your family a delicious, healthy meal! It’s naturally gluten-free and high-protein.

Baked Teriyaki Chicken:When in doubt, make this easyBaked Teriyaki Chicken Breast.The chicken is marinated in an easy homemade teriyaki chicken marinade and then baked in a casserole dish until tender.

Stuffed Chicken Breast: our famous broccoli and cheese stuffed chicken breast would be delicious with al dente steamed broccoli.