Here's how to steam broccoli in the microwave for when you need a tasty vegetable side dish that's ready to serve in a pinch! There is simply no easier cooking method, and it turns out incredibly delicious every time! It's a great go-to recipe to prepare on your busy weeknights with any of your favorite main course dishes!
Easy Microwave Broccoli Recipe
Just because a recipe is simple does not mean it is less than perfect. Just like my amazing microwave cauliflower, microwave carrots, and microwave acorn squash, microwave-steamed broccoli is a quick and easy way to get a plate of veggies prepped in a flash!
After all, why have a microwave oven if you are not going to make the most of it? Life is hectic, so cut down your cooking time when you can!
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There is nothing more delightful than broccoli cooked just right. Sure, some of my more advanced recipes have that gourmet edge and excitement, but sticking to the basics can be just as rewarding!
When I simply do not have the time or energy to experiment or get too involved in something consuming, my go-to steamed broccoli in the microwave never disappoints, and it is always delish!
It's so easy, and it retains enough texture that it's not turned to mush - like what happens when you steam broccoli on the stovetop for too long.
🥘 Microwave Broccoli Ingredients
As far as ingredients go, this one’s a winner, as there are just a few items you will need to make microwave broccoli. Simple but fantastically tasty!
- Broccoli - 1 large head of broccoli. A large head of broccoli should yield about 3 ½ cups of florets plus 2 cups of stems.
- Water - 3 to 4 tablespoons of water. Water is the steaming element that makes the broccoli so light and tasty!
- Butter – 1 tablespoon of butter or use a butter substitute. A pat of butter always adds a special touch. You can use salted butter if preferred.
- Salt & Pepper – salt and pepper to taste. Liven it up or stick to the natural flavor of the veggie.
*Be sure to see the free printable recipe card below for ingredients, exact amounts & instructions with tips!*
🔪 How To Make Microwave Broccoli
This steamed broccoli recipe is a cinch - plus it's the fastest way to get veggies on the table! If you have a microwave oven and a microwave-safe dish, you are pretty much set in terms of equipment needed!
1 large head of broccoli will yield around 4 servings! You can always double the recipe if you work in batches.
- Prep. Place the washed and trimmed broccoli florets in your microwave-safe dish with 3 - 4 tablespoons (44 - 59 milliliters) of water.
- Microwave. Cover your dish with a fitted lid, or set a plate over the top of your broccoli. Microwave on high for 2 ½ minutes, then stir and check for doneness. Continue cooking in 1-minute increments until the broccoli reaches your desired level of tenderness.
- Add ingredients and serve. Remove the broccoli from the microwave, drain off the excess water, toss with 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of butter, salt, and pepper if desired, and serve.
🥦 What To Serve With Steamed Broccoli
Broccoli goes with just about anything, so enjoy it with your favorite main dishes. Serve it as a vegetable side dish for my smoked beef roast, grilled chicken fettuccine alfredo, or reverse sear tomahawk steak for a delicious meal!
You can also top a baked potato with cheese, bacon bits, and broccoli, use it as a homemade pizza topping, or toss it into pasta, soups, or salads. Enjoy!
💭 Angela's Tips & Recipe Notes
- If you do not have a fitted lid for your microwave-safe container, you can use plastic wrap to cover the broccoli instead. This will keep the steam in.
- If using plastic cling film to steam your broccoli in the microwave, I like to leave a small 'vent' spot where the steam can escape.
- Cook the broccoli a while longer, if you like your florets more tender, for about a minute. Go longer if you want them even softer. I like mine to still have some firmness or 'bite' to them.
- Be careful not to overcook your broccoli. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant green color.
🥡 Storing & Reheating
Store any remaining steamed broccoli in an airtight container for up to 4 - 5 days in the refrigerator. Make sure that your microwave-steamed broccoli is fully cooled before storing it in the fridge.
Freezing Cooked Broccoli
To freeze cooked broccoli leftovers, make sure that the broccoli is fully cooled. Then store it in an airtight freezer container or plastic freezer storage bag.
The frozen cooked broccoli lasts for up to a year with great results (however, it can last longer). I always find that my best results are yielded when I use the stored broccoli within the first 9 - 10 months.
Reheating Cooked Broccoli
To reheat, place your leftover broccoli into a microwavable dish and simply microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through.
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❓ Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! Follow the same method as above, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Frozen broccoli will take a bit longer to cook than fresh broccoli.
Check the doneness of the broccoli by inserting a fork into a floret. If the fork goes in easily and the broccoli is tender, it's done and ready to serve.
I would not recommend trying to steam broccoli in the microwave without adding 3-4 tablespoons of water. Water is essential to create steam and cook the broccoli. Without it, your broccoli will likely dry out or become overcooked.
🥔🥗😋 More Tasty Broccoli Recipes
- Broccoli Cauliflower Soup - This tasty soup recipe is easy to make, extra cheesy, and always a great option for lunch or dinner!
- Broccolini Slaw - A crisp and refreshing slaw recipe that only takes a few ingredients to make!
- Broccoli and Cheese - A quick and easy side dish that even your kids will enjoy!
- Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole - This simple casserole is loaded with chicken, creamy sauce, broccoli, rice, and cheese!
- Broccolini Salad - This incredibly easy salad will pair well with practically any main course!
- Sauteed Broccolini - A super flavorful and tender vegetable side dish that's ready to serve in 15 minutes!
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📖 Recipe Card
Steam Broccoli in the Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 large broccoli (1 large head of broccoli yields about 3 ½ cups of florets plus 2 cups of stems)
- 3-4 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon butter (salted butter - optional)
- each, salt & pepper (to taste - optional)
(Note: 2x or 3x only changes the ingredient list)
Instructions
- Place washed and trimmed broccoli florets into microwave-safe dish with water.
- Cover your dish with a fitted lid, or set a plate over the top of your broccoli. Microwave on high for 2 ½ minutes, then stir and check for doneness. Continue cooking in 1-minute increments until the broccoli reaches your desired level of tenderness.
- Remove from your microwave when done. Toss with optional butter and seasoning then serve immediately.
Notes
- If you do not have a fitted lid for your microwave-safe container, you can use plastic wrap to cover the broccoli instead. This will keep the steam in.
- If using plastic cling film to steam your broccoli in the microwave, I like to leave a small 'vent' spot where the steam can escape.
- Cook the broccoli a while longer, if you like your florets more tender, for about a minute. Go longer if you want them even softer. I like mine to still have some firmness or 'bite' to them.
- Be careful not to overcook your broccoli. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant green color.
Lizzy says
This is so easy but works like a charm, thank you!
Rosi 🌸 says
Danke für das Rezept
LG 🌸
Chris says
Brokkolirezept ist so perfekt, danke! Ich liebe diese einfachen, gesunden Anregungen. (Broccoli recipe is so perfect, thanks! I love these simple, healthy suggestions.)