I was hosting my boss for dinner and really wanted everything to be perfect, especially the side dishes. I remembered a meal from a road trip where we stopped at Texas Roadhouse. Their steamed broccoli was amazing – the texture was spot on, and the flavor was incredible. It stuck with me long after the meal, so I decided to try making the Texas Roadhouse Steamed Broccoli Recipe at home.
When I served it to my boss, he loved it! It tasted just like the restaurant’s version, and I was so happy it turned out perfectly. This recipe is simple to make and bursting with flavor. It goes great with grilled or fried chicken, steak, or any main dish.
If you want to enjoy the Texas Roadhouse flavor at home, try this easy side dish—you won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Steamed Broccoli
- Broccoli Florets (4 cups): Fresh, green broccoli florets work best for this recipe.
- Water (6 cups): Used for boiling the broccoli.
- Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt (2 tbsp): Helps season the water and enhance the broccoli’s flavor.
- Morton Kosher Salt (4 tsp): Adds extra seasoning to the dish.
- Olive Oil (3 tbsp): Gives the broccoli a rich, smooth texture and taste.
- Garlic (4 cloves, sliced): Adds a delicious aroma and flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp): Adds a mild kick to the dish.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste): Used for final seasoning.
- Butter (1 tbsp, optional): For extra richness, just like at Texas Roadhouse.
Substitutions & Variations
- Broccoli: If you don’t have fresh broccoli, you can use frozen florets. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Olive Oil: Feel free to use another oil with a high smoke point, like avocado oil or vegetable oil.
- Garlic: If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used. Use about 1/2 teaspoon.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Omit if you don’t like spice, or substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Salt: Sea salt or table salt can be used as substitutes for kosher salt.
Kitchen Appliances Needed
- Mixing Bowl: For the ice bath to cool the broccoli.
- Slotted Spoon or Mesh Strainer: To remove the broccoli from the boiling water.
- Large Skillet or Pan: To sauté the garlic and broccoli.
- Tongs or Spatula: To toss the broccoli in the pan.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 | Boil the Water
Fill a large pot with 4 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt and 4 teaspoons of Morton Kosher Salt.
Step 2 | Steam the Broccoli
Place a steamer basket over the boiling water. Add the broccoli florets and cover the pot with a lid. Let them steam for about 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and tender but not mushy.
Step 3 | Sauté Garlic & Spices
In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until the garlic turns golden and fragrant.
Step 4 | Toss in the Broccoli
Transfer the steamed broccoli to the pan with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat the broccoli evenly with the oil and seasonings.
Step 5 | Final Seasoning
Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper over the broccoli. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the broccoli is well coated and heated through.
Step 6 | Serve & Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve immediately. If you like, add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Steamed Broccoli
- Don’t Overcook: The key to great steamed broccoli is to avoid overcooking it. The blanching process should only take 60-90 seconds.
- Dry Thoroughly: Make sure to dry the broccoli thoroughly after the ice bath. Excess water will prevent it from sautéing properly.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to suit your taste.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and garlic will give you the best flavor.
- Add lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavor.
What Pairs Well With Steamed Broccoli?
Texas Roadhouse Steamed Broccoli is a great side dish that pairs well with many meals. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Chicken: Broccoli and chicken is always a good idea.
- Steak: The rich steak tastes great with the fresh broccoli.
- Fish: Try broccoli with salmon or tilapia.
- Pasta: Add broccoli to your pasta for extra flavor.
- Pork Chops: The savory pork chops taste even better with the broccoli.
Storing Suggestions
Allow the broccoli to cool completely before storing it to maintain its texture and freshness. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and absorb unwanted odors. Place the sealed container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to keep it safe for consumption.
Properly stored, cooked broccoli will remain fresh for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Texas Roadhouse Steamed Broccoli Recipe FAQs
1. How do I prevent my broccoli from turning mushy?
Use an ice bath after blanching to stop cooking immediately. Blanch for 60-90 seconds for crisp, tender broccoli.
2. Can I prepare the broccoli ahead of time?
Yes! Blanch it earlier, dry completely, and store in an airtight container. Reheat by sautéing with garlic and olive oil.
3. What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the red pepper flakes?
Absolutely! They’re optional. The dish will still taste great with just garlic and olive oil.
4. How do I choose the best broccoli for this recipe?
Pick firm, deep green broccoli with tight florets. Avoid yellowing or dried-out pieces.
5. My broccoli always tastes bland. How can I add more flavor?
Season well with garlic, olive oil, and spices. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end enhances the taste!
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Conclusion
Texas Roadhouse Steamed Broccoli is a simple yet delicious side dish that adds freshness and flavor to any meal. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and pairs well with almost anything.
Following this recipe, you can recreate that same restaurant-quality taste at home in just minutes. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more tasty recipes!