I recently made this Roasted Broccoli and White Beans recipe, and I have to say, it was a game-changer for my weeknight dinners. I love how simple it is, yet packed with flavor from the garlic, lemon, and Parmesan.
It’s the kind of dish that feels comforting but still healthy. I found myself sneaking bites straight from the baking sheet while it was cooling.
Honestly, it might just become my new go-to meal for busy days. If you enjoy hearty dinner ideas, you might also like this Steak with Creamy Mushroom Peppercorn Sauce Recipe for a rich and flavorful meal option.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – for roasting and flavor; good quality oil makes a difference
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic adds a vibrant kick
- 4–5 cups broccoli florets – use fresh, firm broccoli for the best roast
- 1 15 oz. can white beans, rinsed and drained – canned beans save time and get a crispy exterior
- A heavy pinch red pepper flakes – adds a subtle heat
- Juice of 1 lemon, plus a few slices to roast – fresh lemon juice brightens the dish
- Kosher salt + fresh cracked pepper – to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan – adds a rich, nutty finish
Note: several serving
Variations
You can easily tweak this dish to fit your preferences:
- Use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- Swap white beans for chickpeas or cannellini beans for a different texture.
- Add pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra crunch.
- Mix in roasted bell peppers or carrots to boost veggies.
- For another comforting baked dish idea, you can explore this Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe as a delicious layered meal inspiration.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Baking sheet – to roast the broccoli and beans evenly
- Mixing bowl – for tossing broccoli and beans with oil and seasoning
- Knife and cutting board – for prepping garlic and broccoli
- Grater – for fresh Parmesan
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot baking sheet
How to Make Roasted Broccoli and White Beans
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing and cutting the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic and rinse the canned beans, gently draining them to avoid breaking. Having all your ingredients ready makes roasting much smoother.
Tossing Broccoli and Beans
Mix olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Toss broccoli in the mixture to coat, then carefully fold in the white beans, keeping them intact. This ensures even roasting and flavor distribution.
Roasting
Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly oil the baking sheet. Spread the broccoli and beans on the sheet, tucking in a few lemon slices. Roast for 15–20 minutes, tossing occasionally until the edges start to char.
Adding Cheese
Once roasted, sprinkle a generous amount of Parmesan over the vegetables. Switch your oven to broil and cook for 2 minutes until the cheese bubbles and lightly browns.
Finishing Touches
Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally topped with a poached or fried egg for extra protein.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
- I like to use fresh broccoli instead of frozen for crispier results.
- Don’t over-toss the beans—they get a lovely crispy exterior when left mostly intact.
- I sometimes add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes after broiling to allow the flavors to meld.
How to Serve Roasted Broccoli and White Beans
This dish is beautiful plated on a simple white dish to show off the green and golden tones. Garnish with extra Parmesan or a few fresh herbs like parsley. Serve alongside crusty bread, quinoa, or as a side to grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 220–250
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find it reheats well without losing texture.
Freezing
You can freeze roasted broccoli and beans, but I recommend freezing without cheese. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add Parmesan fresh before serving.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to regain crispness, or quickly in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. Avoid microwaving too long, or the broccoli will get soggy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why I keep coming back to this dish:
- Easy to prepare – minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
- Healthy and nutritious – packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
- Versatile – serve as a main, side, or salad topper.
- Flavorful – garlic, lemon, and Parmesan make it irresistible.
- Customizable – swap beans, add nuts, or include extra veggies for variety.