Hey, Welcome to the Applebees Broccoli Recipe. Applebees Broccoli is a tender, buttery, and perfectly seasoned side dish that brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your table.
If you’ve ever had this at Applebee’s with your favorite entrée, you already know how fresh, buttery, and satisfying it tastes.
I wanted to recreate that at home, and guess what? I nailed it! Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make this delightful recipe right in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Category: Side Dish
History and Origin
Applebee’s introduced broccoli as part of its healthier side dish options, appealing to guests seeking balance with their meals.
By the way, you can also try the Texas Roadhouse Italian Salad Dressing Recipe.
Its simple steaming method with buttery seasoning quickly became popular, making it a staple vegetable side on the restaurant’s menu.
What does Applebees Broccoli taste like?
Applebees Broccoli tastes tender, fresh, and buttery with a light seasoning of garlic and lemon.
The balance of flavors creates a comforting, savory side dish that complements hearty meals, offering a restaurant-quality taste right at home.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Applebees Broccoli Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh broccoli florets | 4 cups |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Easy Applebees Broccoli Recipe:
- Saucepan with lid
- Steamer basket (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
How to Make Applebees Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into medium-sized florets. Keep them aside.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Boil water in a saucepan. Put the broccoli in the steamer basket. Cover and steam for 5–6 minutes until tender but not mushy.
Step 3: Season the Broccoli
In a bowl, melt butter and mix in garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the steamed broccoli to this mixture and toss gently.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to a serving plate. Serve hot as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
Recipe Card
Applebees Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into medium-sized florets. Keep them aside.
- Boil water in a saucepan. Put the broccoli in the steamer basket. Cover and steam for 5–6 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- In a bowl, melt butter and mix in garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the steamed broccoli to this mixture and toss gently.
- Transfer to a serving plate. Serve hot as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
Video
Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85 |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Applebees Broccoli pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood. You can also serve it alongside pasta, rice bowls, or mashed potatoes.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or pair it with a creamy dip for a tasty snack.
Storage Tips
Remaining Applebee’s Broccoli can be kept in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.
Reheat it in the microwave or steam lightly before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture and taste of broccoli.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Applebees Broccoli Recipe is quick, healthy, and full of flavor. It brings restaurant-style freshness to your table in just minutes.
The buttery garlic seasoning enhances the taste, making it the perfect side for any meal.
Tips For Perfectly Steamed Broccoli
Always use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Don’t oversteam, as it can turn mushy.
Adding lemon juice and butter right after steaming keeps the florets bright, tender, and flavorful, just like the original Applebee’s version.
How To Make It More Flavorful
You can easily boost the flavor by adding a touch of grated Parmesan, chili flakes, or crushed garlic.
A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon before serving makes this broccoli taste extra special.
Health Benefits Of Broccoli
Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s known to support digestion, boost immunity, and promote heart health.
Adding it to your meals regularly is a delicious way to enjoy nutritious, wholesome food at home.
Variations You Can Try
Try roasting broccoli in the oven with olive oil and garlic for a crisp texture. You can also toss it with soy sauce and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist.
Each variation offers a new and tasty flavor.
Best Dishes To Serve With Applebee’s Broccoli
Applebees Broccoli Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or baked salmon. It’s also wonderful alongside pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice bowls.
Its buttery and garlicky notes complement almost any main dish perfectly.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Avoid overcooking Applebees Broccoli Recipe, as it loses its color and crunch. Always season it while it’s warm to let the flavors absorb.
Using too much lemon juice or salt can also overpower the delicate buttery flavor.
How To Keep The Broccoli Bright Green
To maintain that fresh, vibrant color, blanch the broccoli in boiling water, then immediately place it in ice water.
This locks in the green hue and preserves the crisp texture while keeping the natural nutrients intact.
Adding a Touch of Spice
If you love a little heat, sprinkle red chili flakes or black pepper just before serving. This adds a gentle kick that balances beautifully with the buttery garlic flavor of the Applebee’s-style broccoli.
Conclusion
Applebees Broccoli Recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish you can easily recreate at home. It’s buttery, garlicky, and perfect to pair with your favorite meals.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should I steam the broccoli?
Steam for 5–6 minutes until tender but still crisp.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but reduce steaming time to 3–4 minutes.
What can I use instead of butter?
Olive oil or ghee works well as a healthier substitute.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Yes, a sprinkle of Parmesan adds extra flavor.
Is this recipe vegan?
Olive oil can be used in place of butter to make it vegan.
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