Description
Firecracker Broccoli with Cheese is a vibrant, spicy, and cheesy baked broccoli dish perfect for a flavorful side or snack. Fresh broccoli florets are tossed in a zesty sauce made from olive oil, sweet chili, Sriracha, and lime juice, then baked until tender and slightly charred, topped with melted Pepper Jack cheese for a delightful spicy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli
- 2 large broccoli heads, chopped into florets
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon Sriracha (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about one lime)
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping
- 1/4 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the broccoli: Chop the two broccoli heads into bite-sized florets and set them aside, ensuring even cooking later.
- Make the firecracker sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha (if using), and fresh lime juice until well combined. This sauce will coat the broccoli with a spicy, tangy flavor.
- Coat the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the sauce in batches, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. Spread the coated broccoli evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer for even roasting.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over the broccoli. For an extra spicy kick, add red pepper flakes at this point.
- Add cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded Pepper Jack cheese over the broccoli on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and has charred edges, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from oven and serve hot.
Notes
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of Sriracha and red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; use two sheets if necessary.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a flavorful vegetarian side.
