20+ Ways to Jazz Up Broccoli (Frozen or Fresh!)

Broccoli, often dubbed as the quintessential superfood, is packed with nutrients and health benefits, but let’s face it – convincing the family, especially kids, to embrace this green veggie can sometimes feel like an uphill battle.

That’s why we’ve put together a treasure trove of simple, budget-friendly, and undeniably kid-friendly ways to transform broccoli from a dinner table standoff to the star of the meal.

Whether you’re dealing with fresh or frozen florets, our creative and delicious twists on this classic vegetable are designed to tantalize taste buds of all ages.

What can you add to broccoli to make it taste better?

From cheesy delights to zesty stir-fries, our innovative recipes will inspire you to see broccoli in a whole new light, proving that healthy eating can be both fun and flavorful. Get ready to reinvent your approach to this green giant and watch as it becomes a requested favorite at your family’s table.

1. Broccoli and Cheese Sauce

Steam the broccoli and then drizzle it with a homemade cheese sauce. You can easily make a sauce with milk, cheese, and a bit of flour for thickening, creating a comforting and familiar flavor.

2. Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Mix chopped broccoli with shredded cheese, form into small patties, and bake until golden. This is like a fun, healthy version of a tater tot, perfect for both kids and adults.

3. Garlic Lemon Broccoli

Sauté broccoli in a little olive oil with minced garlic and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This adds a zesty flavor that can be quite appealing, offering a fresh and flavorful twist.

4. Broccoli Stir-fry

Stir-fry broccoli with other favorite veggies and a simple sauce made from soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

5. Broccoli and Ranch Dip

Serve raw or lightly steamed broccoli with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. Kids often love anything they can dip, making this a fun way to enjoy their greens.

6. Broccoli Pizza

Top a homemade or store-bought pizza crust with tomato sauce, cheese, and small broccoli florets. This is a great way to make eating veggies fun and is perfect for a family pizza night.

7. Creamy Broccoli Soup

Make a simple broccoli soup by blending steamed broccoli with broth and a bit of cream or milk. You can add cheese for extra flavor, creating a warm and comforting dish.

8. Broccoli Pasta

Toss cooked broccoli with pasta, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You can also add some cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein, making a complete and hearty meal.

9. Honey Mustard Broccoli

Roast the broccoli and then toss it with a mix of honey and mustard. This sweet and tangy combination can be a hit with kids, offering a delightful twist to the usual flavors.

10. Broccoli and Carrot Slaw

Mix raw, grated broccoli stems and carrots with a light mayo or yogurt dressing for a crunchy, fresh side dish. This slaw is perfect for picnics or as a refreshing side.

11. Broccoli Tots

Similar to potato tots, mix finely chopped broccoli with breadcrumbs, cheese, and egg, form into tot shapes, and bake until crispy. These tots are a fun and healthy snack that everyone can enjoy.

12. Sweet Soy Glazed Broccoli

Roast or steam broccoli and then toss with a glaze made from soy sauce, a bit of sugar, and sesame oil for a sweet and savory flavor. This Asian-inspired dish is a delightful way to enjoy broccoli.

13. Broccoli Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Add small, cooked broccoli florets to a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a nutritious twist. This combination brings a new dimension to a beloved classic.

14. Broccoli and Cheese Quesadillas

Place steamed broccoli and shredded cheese between tortillas and cook until the cheese is melted. Cut into wedges for an easy finger food that’s both tasty and wholesome.

15. Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Blend steamed broccoli with basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil to make a pesto. Mix it with pasta for a green, veggie-packed sauce that’s full of flavor and nutrition.

16. Mini Broccoli Quiches

Make mini quiches with a simple egg and cheese mixture and add finely chopped broccoli. Bake in muffin tins for a fun, bite-sized snack that’s perfect for breakfast or a light lunch.

17. Broccoli Fritters

Combine chopped broccoli with flour, egg, and cheese, and pan-fry to make fritters. Serve with a yogurt-based dip for a delightful snack or appetizer.

18. Broccoli and Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes

Stuff baked potatoes with a mixture of cooked broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese, then bake until the cheese is bubbly. This dish is a hearty and satisfying way to enjoy broccoli.

19. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Roast broccoli florets with olive oil and garlic, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and roast until the cheese is crispy and golden. This method brings out a nutty, savory flavor in the broccoli.

20. Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Upgrade a classic mac and cheese by adding steamed broccoli florets into the mix for an extra dose of nutrition. This dish is a comforting and wholesome meal that’s sure to please.

21. Broccoli Cheese Muffins

Incorporate finely chopped broccoli into a savory muffin batter along with cheese and a hint of garlic. Bake these muffins for a portable, fun, and nutritious snack that’s great for on-the-go or lunchboxes.

22. Broccoli and Ham Roll-Ups

Wrap steamed broccoli florets and a slice of ham around a stick of cheese. Bake or grill these roll-ups until the cheese is melted and the ham is slightly crispy. This protein-packed snack is both delicious and easy for kids to enjoy.

23. Crispy Broccoli Pancakes

Mix grated broccoli with a simple pancake batter, adding some grated cheese and spices for extra flavor. Cook them like regular pancakes and serve with a dollop of sour cream or a kid-friendly dipping sauce. These pancakes offer a fun and tasty way to get kids excited about eating their greens.

Kid Friendly & Wallet Friendly Broccoli Ideas

Jazzing up broccoli is not just about making it palatable but about celebrating its versatility and nutritional value in delightful, family-friendly ways.

With these simple, affordable, and kid-approved recipes, broccoli transforms from a mundane side dish into a culinary adventure that even the pickiest eaters can enjoy.

These ideas serve as a testament to the fact that with a little creativity and the right ingredients, even the most overlooked vegetables can become the highlight of a meal.

So, embrace these fun and flavorful twists on classic broccoli and watch as this green veggie takes center stage on your dinner table, contributing to both happy plates and healthy lifestyles.