Grilled Broccoli

Grilled Broccoli is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to cook fresh broccoli. The high heat creates crispy edges, tender stems, and a fresh flavor that's hard to beat. With just a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, this simple side dish is ready in no time.

If you've only had steamed or roasted broccoli, you're in for a surprise. Grilling gives broccoli a roasted flavor while adding smoky notes and preserving its crisp-tender texture. It's one of my favorite easy summer side dishes because it pairs with almost any meat you want to grill.

Serve it with Denver Steak, Smoked Meatballs, Pellet Grill Ribs, Whole Smoked Trout, or Hot Honey Grilled Chicken for an easy meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 15 minutes
• Crispy edges with tender centers
• Perfect for summer grilling
• Only a handful of ingredients
• Easy to customize with different seasonings
• Great with steak, chicken, seafood, or pork

Before You Get Started

• Dry the broccoli well after washing.
• Preheat the grill before cooking.
• Toss the broccoli with the oil and seasonings instead of oiling the grill.
• A grill basket or grill mat makes grilling much easier.

Ingredients

• Broccoli - Fresh broccoli works best. We use small heads and cut them in half. Remove the tough part of the stalks.
• Olive oil - Helps the broccoli brown and keeps it from sticking.
• Salt - Enhances the flavor of the broccoli. You can always season to taste.
• Black pepper - Freshly cracked has the best flavor.

See the recipe card for quantities.

How to Grill Broccoli

Step One: Preheat your grill over high heat.

Step Two: Place the broccoli in a large bowl and toss with olive oil (or the oil of your choice), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step Three: Arrange the broccoli on a grill mat, in a grill basket, or directly on the grill grates if you are using large pieces.

Step Four: Grill, turning every few minutes, until lightly charred and crisp-tender.

Step Five: Transfer to a serving platter or bowl and serve immediately.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the air fryer, skillet, or oven until warmed through to help restore some of the crisp texture.

Variations

• Garlic Parmesan Broccoli - Sprinkle with garlic powder and freshly grated Parmesan cheese after grilling.
• Lemon Broccoli - Finish with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest.
• Spicy Grilled Broccoli - Add red pepper flakes before serving.
• Balsamic Broccoli - Drizzle with balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar before serving.
• Asian Style - Toss with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.
• Cheesy Broccoli - Top with your favorite shredded cheese.
• Grilled Cauliflower - Swap in cauliflower for the broccoli.
• Mixed Veggies - Add other vegetables in with the broccoli. Zucchini, red peppers, onions, and grape tomatoes work well.

Common Questions

Can I grill frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is highly recommended. Frozen broccoli contains too much moisture. You can heat it on the grill, but it won't brown or get crispy.

What temperature should I grill broccoli?

Medium to medium-high heat gives the best balance of char without burning. We normally roast broccoli in the oven at 425. The same temp works on the grill.

Can I make grilled broccoli in advance?

It's best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well. It is also tasty chilled on a hot day.

What goes well with grilled broccoli?

This grilled broccoli recipe pairs well with steak, burgers, pork chops, grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, ribs, and sausages.

 

 

Recipe

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Originally Published June 8, 2021. Revised and Republished June 26, 2026.