Applebee’s is a great place for a casual dinner, and their sides are surprisingly tasty. The steamed broccoli is a simple, healthy choice that always hits the spot. It’s perfectly cooked not too soft, not too crunch, and seasoned just right. It’s a great side to order with ribs or pasta.
I love making it at home because I can use fresh ingredients and add my own spin. This recipe is just like the Applebee’s version, but with a little garlic butter to make it extra delicious. It’s fast, uses simple ingredients, and makes a boring vegetable exciting.
When you cook it yourself, you can add as much or as little garlic as you want. It’s become a go-to side for my weeknight meals. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s such a popular dish.
Why People Love This Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe
This recipe captures the fresh, clean taste of Applebee’s broccoli while adding subtle enhancements that make it irresistible. The broccoli stays bright and tender-crisp, avoiding the mushy texture that can happen with overcooking. A touch of garlic and butter brings warmth and depth without making it heavy.
It’s versatile and healthy, fitting into any meal plan while feeling indulgent. Families enjoy it because it’s kid-friendly yet nutritious, and it’s low-effort for busy cooks. The simple preparation means it doesn’t steal the spotlight from the main dish but still gets compliments every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves 4 as a side dish:
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Optional: 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
These ingredients keep it light while delivering that restaurant-quality taste.
Tools Needed for Preparation
You’ll only need basic kitchen items:
- Large pot with steamer basket or colander
- Small saucepan
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
Everything comes together quickly with these everyday tools.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Dish
Steam the Broccoli
Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and insert a steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets to the basket, cover the pot, and steam for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp when pierced with a fork. Remove immediately to avoid overcooking, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the broccoli steams, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned. This infuses the butter with garlic flavor without bitterness. Remove from heat and stir in salt and pepper.
Toss and Finish
Pour the warm garlic butter over the steamed broccoli in the bowl. Use tongs to gently toss everything together until the florets are evenly coated. If using lemon juice, drizzle it on now for a bright note. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle Parmesan on top and toss lightly.
Serve Warm
Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish right away to keep it hot and crisp. The garlic butter clings perfectly, adding richness while letting the vegetable shine. This step ensures every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (about 1 cup), approximate values based on 4 servings. These can vary with additions like cheese.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 110 | 6% |
| Total Fat | 6g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 15mg | 5% |
| Sodium | 320mg | 14% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 11g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g | 14% |
| Sugars | 2g | – |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
This side is nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins from broccoli and moderate in calories.
Tips for Perfecting Your Applebee’s Broccoli
- Choose fresh broccoli with tight, dark green florets for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t over-steam; stop when it’s still slightly crunchy to match the restaurant style.
- Use fresh garlic for bolder taste; pre-minced can be milder.
- For a vegan version, swap butter with olive oil or plant-based alternative.
- Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you like a little heat.
- Prep ahead by steaming early and reheating gently with the butter to avoid sogginess.
These small adjustments make the dish even better every time.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled steak or chicken for a classic Applebee’s-style plate.
- Serve alongside pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or spaghetti.
- Add to salads for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Enjoy with fish or seafood for a light, balanced meal.
- Use as a side for burgers or sandwiches to round out the plate.
- Mix into stir-fries or casseroles for added veggies.
These ideas show how adaptable this broccoli is.
Conclusion
Now you can make Applebee’s famous broccoli right in your own kitchen. It’s super simple to steam, and that light garlic butter adds just the right amount of flavor. It’s a quick, healthy side that tastes just like the restaurant version. Give it a try tonight
FAQ
Is this exactly like Applebee’s steamed broccoli?
This version closely mimics the restaurant’s steamed broccoli with a light butter enhancement, adding garlic for extra depth while keeping it fresh and simple.
Can I make it without butter?
Yes, use olive oil instead for a lighter, dairy-free option. The garlic flavor still comes through beautifully.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
What if I want it cheesier?
Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar on top after tossing for a melty, indulgent twist.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh is best for texture, but frozen works in a pinch. Thaw and pat dry before steaming to avoid excess water.
Applebee’s Broccoli Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot with steamer basket or colander
- Small saucepan
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets about 1 large head
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Optional: 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions
Steam the Broccoli
- Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and insert a steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets to the basket, cover the pot, and steam for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp when pierced with a fork. Remove immediately to avoid overcooking, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Prepare the Garlic Butter
- While the broccoli steams, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned. This infuses the butter with garlic flavor without bitterness. Remove from heat and stir in salt and pepper.
Toss and Finish
- Pour the warm garlic butter over the steamed broccoli in the bowl. Use tongs to gently toss everything together until the florets are evenly coated. If using lemon juice, drizzle it on now for a bright note. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle Parmesan on top and toss lightly.
Serve Warm
- Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish right away to keep it hot and crisp. The garlic butter clings perfectly, adding richness while letting the vegetable shine. This step ensures every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
