We’re Obsessed With These Viral Crispy Parmesan Broccoli Sticks
Updated: May 09, 2023
Don't waste your broccoli stems. Make this cheesy, healthy and delicious recipe instead!
If you pay attention to recipe trends, Parmesan-crusted anything is hot right now. From Parmesan-crusted carrots and Parmesan-crusted potatoes to Parmesan-crusted chicken—this flavorful cheese just seems to make everything a little better. So it’s no surprise that the latest viral recipe sensation is—Parmesan broccoli sticks! While we might all know how to cook broccoli, this recipe uses the stems, so it’s a great opportunity to use a part of the veggie that so often is wasted. And they’re healthy, too.
This popular recipe was developed by TikTok creator Stella Drivas, aka @hungryhappens, who extolls the virtues of using broccoli stems. “Growing up, my parents never let anything go to waste,” she says, “so they used to give us the raw broccoli stems to eat as a snack.” She developed this Parmesan broccoli stick recipe as a delicious update to that childhood snack.
@hungryhappens Crispy Parmesan Broccoli Sticks 🥦 full recipe is on: HungryHappens.Net #broccoli ♬ original sound – Stella Drivas
How To Make Parmesan Broccoli Sticks
This is a pretty forgiving recipe. If you can, buy large broccoli with longer stems so you can cut them into a French fry shape. Make sure you grate plenty of Parmesan cheese, and experiment with different spices as you wish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups broccoli stems, peeled and sliced into long sticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground spices (paprika, chili powder, oregano, onion powder or other)
- Salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Pinch of sumac
Instructions
Step 1: Slice and coat the stems
Heat oven to 425℉. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan, garlic and spices. Add broccoli sticks and coat well.
Step 2: Add more cheese and bake
Then, dip each stick in more grated Parmesan on the flat side and place on a baking sheet, cheese side down. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Step 3: Make the dip and serve
In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Top with sumac if desired. Serve dip with Parmesan broccoli sticks.
