Microwave Steamed Broccoli

Microwave Steamed Broccoli is tender, buttery, and delicious. This easy side dish takes just minutes to prep and even less time to cook. Broccoli florets go from crunchy to unbelievably tender when steamed in the microwave. You may never cook broccoli any other way again!

Learn how to steam broccoli in the microwave and add in just a few pantry staples to enhance the natural flavor of the broccoli even more. It’s so easy you won’t mind making it several times a week! Your whole family will fall in love with this microwave broccoli.

Why You'll Love Microwave Steamed Broccoli

• It makes for a speedy, (mostly) hands-off side dish. Chopping the broccoli is the most labor-intensive part of this recipe. After that, the microwave will take care of the cooking! All you have to do is drain the excess water off and stir in the butter and seasoning at the end.
• No stovetop or oven needed! This incredibly easy recipe doesn’t require you to fire up a single burner or preheat anything. Just add the ingredients, pop into the microwave, and stir when it’s done.
• Easy way to add a vegetable to any meal. Keep this recipe for how to steam broccoli in the microwave in your back pocket (or simply memorize the few easy steps and ratios!) to use any time you need it, whether you’re in a pinch and need to add something green to your child’s plate or you’re making a recipe that calls for steamed broccoli.
• It cooks fast. When you’re quickly whipping up dinner between work and running errands, every minute counts — which is why this recipe for steamed broccoli in the microwave is the perfect dish for busy schedules. It tastes so great, you wouldn’t know it only took a few minutes in the microwave!

Ingredient Notes

To make easy Steamed Broccoli in the microwave, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):

• broccoli florets - this recipe calls for freshly chopped florets of broccoli, but you can also use frozen broccoli florets if you’re in a pinch! You may have to adjust the amount of water and the cooking time to account for the extra moisture and starting temp.
• water
• butter - using unsalted butter will ensure you don’t over salt it in the next step, but if you use salted butter, just make sure you taste it before adding more salt. You can also use a vegan butter alternative if you prefer.
• salt and pepper - fresh ground pepper offers the most favor and you can use whatever size grain of salt you want—larger flakes will add a crunchy texture and smaller flakes will offer a more even distribution. It’s up to you!

You will also need measuring spoons and a microwave-safe bowl and cover.

How to Make the Best Steamed Rice in the Microwave

1. Microwave. Place broccoli florets in a large microwave-safe bowl. Pour water on top. Cover the bowl with a microwave cover or microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high until broccoli is tender, about 3-4 minutes.

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1. Drain. Carefully remove the hot bowl (watch for the hot steam) and carefully drain the steamed broccoli in a colander if there is any water is leftover.
2. Season. Transfer the steamed broccoli to a serving dish and top with butter, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and serve immediately.

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How to Serve

Serve Microwave Steamed Broccoli any time you need to add a veggie to a meal. Grilling chicken, steak, or fish? Serve this broccoli. Making spaghetti? Steamed broccoli makes a great side! Grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni for lunch? Toss some broccoli in the microwave while you’re browning bread and serve. Because this steamed broccoli is so simple and easy, it pairs well with just about anything.

Some of my favorite entrees to serve this with are:

• Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
• Homemade Potato and Cheese Perogies
• Garlic Butter Salmon
• Oven Baked Chicken Breast
• Creamy Parmesan Risotto
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Storage and Freezing Instructions

How to Store

Once cooled, place any leftover broccoli in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer to a microwave-safe dish and cover. Microwave on high for 45-75 seconds until warm.

How to Freeze

Steamed broccoli can also be frozen. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

More Broccoli Recipes

• Air Fryer Broccoli
• Broccoli Cheese Casserole
• Creamy Broccoli Slaw Salad
• Roasted Broccoli Grilled Cheese
• Broccoli Cheese Soup
• Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

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