deliciously cheesy plant-based smashed broccoli
if you’re looking for a side dish or appetizer that’s both comforting and impressive, this deliciously cheesy plant-based smashed broccoli is here to steal the show, truly!!
these crispy, cheesy bites have the perfect texture—tender inside with a golden, slightly crispy outside.
the rich flavor of roasted broccoli, paired with the creamy, melty goodness of dairy-free cheese, makes this dish an absolute crowd-pleaser.

texture and taste
the smashed broccoli strikes the perfect balance of textures.
steaming the florets just enough ensures a tender center, while baking them brings out a lightly crisp exterior.
the dairy-free cheese topping adds a creamy, gooey element that perfectly complements the roasted broccoli.
every bite is bursting with savory flavors, thanks to the garlic and onion powders and the hint of caramelization from the oven.
why this dish is perfect for any occasion
whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or preparing a holiday feast, these cheesy smashed broccoli bites fit right in.
as an appetizer, they’re fun to snack on and easy to serve.
as a side dish, they pair beautifully with almost any main course.
for holidays, their vibrant green color and cheesy topping make them an eye-catching addition to the table.
if you’re feeding a crowd, you can easily double the recipe to make more—just spread the broccoli across two baking sheets to ensure even cooking.

how to make them
the process is simple and satisfying.
after steaming the broccoli just until tender, toss it in a flavorful mixture of avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
arrange the florets on a baking sheet and smash them gently with the bottom of a sturdy mug.
after baking for 15 minutes, top with your favorite dairy-free cheese (like miyoko’s liquid mozzarella) and return them to the oven to finish melting and crisping.
for an extra golden finish, you can broil them for a minute —just watch closely to avoid burning.
vegan cheese options
for the cheese topping, there are plenty of great vegan options to choose from.
miyoko’s liquid mozzarella is a favorite for its creamy texture and ability to melt beautifully.
you can also use shredded options like violife, follow your heart, good planet or daiya.
pick your favorite, and don’t be shy about layering it on for extra cheesiness.

storage tips
if you have leftovers (though they’re so good, that might be unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
to reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°f for about 10 minutes to bring back their crispiness and melt the cheese again.
this deliciously cheesy plant-based smashed broccoli is bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
it’s quick to make, endlessly versatile, and sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or wowing guests at a holiday gathering, this dish has you covered.
if you like my Deliciously Cheesy Plant-Based Smashed Broccoli you’ll also love these other recipes of mine!
Quick and Easy Farro Chickpea Salad with Vegan Feta Crumbles
Rainbow Veggie Crunch and Roasted Cashew Salad
Zesty Wellness Bowl: Ginger-Boosted Vegan Kale and Tofu Salad
Vibrant and Hearty Vegan Winter Salad
The Best Kale, Cranberry and Butternut Squash Thanksgiving Side Salad
Nourishing Fall Salad Flatbreads
Vegan Spicy Peanut Cashew Salad
High Protein Eggless Salad Melt
Goddess Glow Nutrient-Packed Salad
Vegan Chickpea Waldorf Salad Sandwich
Vegan Tofu Parmesan Caesar Salad Wraps
Vegan Maple Sweet Potato and Bacon Harvest Salad
Unreal Healthy Plant-Based Gluten-Free Broccoli Pizzas
Plant-Based Convenient Veggie & Hummus Pasta
Cozy Sun-Dried Tomato & Chickpea Kale Soup
Plant-Based Spanakopita Baked Spaghetti Squash
Protein-Packed Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Plant-Based Protein “Breadsticks” (11g+ per breadstick!)
Blue Zone Lentil and Chickpea Gemista
Revitalizing Salad with Carrot Ginger Miso Dressing
Savory Vegan Protein-Packed Breakfast Sandwiches
Delicious Plant-Based Chickpea & Spinach Nuggets
Satisfying Coconut Tofu Salad with Curry Tahini Dressing

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Deliciously Cheesy Plant-Based Smashed Broccoli
Recipe by Mary5
servings15
minutes25
minutesIngredients
2 heads broccoli, cut into florets
3 tbsp avocado oil
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
sea salt and pepper, to taste
dairy-free cheese of choice (shredded or slices)
Directions
- preheat your oven to 400°f. steam the broccoli florets until just slightly tender, about 5 minutes. avoid overcooking so they hold their shape when smashed.
- in a large bowl, toss the steamed broccoli with avocado oil, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper until evenly coated. you can also just brush on the oil and sprinkle on seasoning, whatever you prefer.
- spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer. using the bottom of a sturdy mug, gently smash each floret to flatten slightly. bake for 15 minutes.
- remove from the oven and top each piece with your dairy-free cheese of choice. return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
- for crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to avoid burning. serve hot and enjoy!


