We’ve always been fans of the Old Spaghetti Factory’s broccoli recipe—it’s a simple yet irresistible side that captures the chain’s hearty Italian vibe. Drawing from their classic menu, this dish combines fresh veggies with a touch of garlic and cheese for a flavor that feels straight from the restaurant.
In our kitchen, we’ve perfected this easy copycat version so you can enjoy it anytime. Let’s dive into why it’s a go-to favorite for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
In our quest to recreate the iconic Old Spaghetti Factory Broccoli Recipe, we start by selecting high-quality ingredients that capture the dish’s fresh, garlicky essence and cheesy appeal. These components form the foundation of this simple yet flavorful side, perfect for family gatherings.
- Broccoli florets: 1 pound, fresh and cut into bite-sized pieces—wash thoroughly to ensure crispness.
- Garlic cloves: 4 medium cloves, minced—we recommend using a garlic press for even distribution and maximum flavor release.
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, softened—this provides the rich base for sautéing and ties into the restaurant’s classic Italian charm.
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon, extra-virgin—to enhance the sauté and prevent burning, adding a subtle Mediterranean touch.
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated—opt for high-quality cheese to mimic the melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this recipe so beloved.
- Lemon: 1 medium, juiced—freshly squeezed for a bright, zesty finish that balances the richness.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, starting with ½ teaspoon of each—season generously to elevate the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our copycat Old Spaghetti Factory Broccoli Recipe, let’s ensure we have the right tools on hand. This simple setup will help us achieve that fresh, garlicky, and cheesy perfection with ease and efficiency.
We recommend the following essential equipment, organized by the sequence of use in the recipe:
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip surface for safely chopping broccoli florets and mincing garlic, ensuring precise prep work.
- Chef’s knife: Our go-to for quickly and evenly slicing fresh broccoli and other ingredients, making the process smooth and professional.
- Large skillet or frying pan: Ideal for sautéing the broccoli with garlic, butter, and olive oil to lock in those vibrant flavors and textures.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate tools for measuring ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings, guaranteeing consistent results every time.
- Cheese grater: Perfect for freshly grating Parmesan cheese, which enhances the dish’s cheesy appeal and elevates its homemade taste.
- Steamer basket (optional): If we prefer a lighter steam instead of sautéing, this allows the broccoli to retain its crisp-tender bite and nutrients.
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized option for tossing ingredients together before cooking, helping us combine flavors seamlessly.
- Tongs or spatula: Essential for stirring and flipping broccoli in the pan, preventing it from sticking and ensuring even cooking.
By having these items ready, we can transition smoothly from selecting our high-quality ingredients to crafting a dish that’s as simple as it is irresistible.
Instructions
We guide you through our simple, step-by-step process to recreate the Old Spaghetti Factory Broccoli Recipe at home using the fresh ingredients and tools we’ve outlined. Follow these instructions to achieve a garlicky, cheesy side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings.
Prep
First, we gather and prepare the ingredients to ensure everything is ready for cooking. Start by rinsing 1 pound of fresh broccoli florets under cold water to remove any dirt then pat them dry with a clean towel. Next, peel and mince 3 cloves of garlic for that aromatic base. Grate 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese using your cheese grater to capture its nutty flavor. Measure out 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper into a mixing bowl for easy access. With these steps complete, your ingredients are prepped and organized to transition smoothly into cooking.
Cook
We move to the stovetop to bring out the vibrant flavors and textures of this dish. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil until the butter melts and bubbles slightly. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Add the 1 pound of fresh broccoli florets to the skillet and toss them evenly in the garlicky mixture using tongs. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper then cover and cook for 5-7 minutes stirring occasionally until the broccoli turns bright green and tender-crisp with a satisfying crunch.
Assemble and Serve
Finally, we assemble the dish to enhance its sensory appeal before serving. Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a bright, tangy lift that complements the rich garlic notes. Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli and stir gently until it melts slightly creating a creamy, golden coating. Serve immediately while hot and steamy with the broccoli’s vibrant green color, savory garlic aroma, and cheesy tang making it an irresistible side that evokes the charm of the Old Spaghetti Factory.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To help you enjoy our copycat Old Spaghetti Factory Broccoli Recipe without last-minute rush, we recommend these straightforward make-ahead strategies. This approach keeps the dish’s vibrant green color, garlicky aroma, and tender-crisp texture intact for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We suggest preparing your ingredients up to 24 hours in advance to streamline cooking. Start by rinsing and chopping the broccoli florets into uniform pieces on a clean cutting board—this ensures even cooking later. Mince the garlic and grate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For seasonings, measure out the salt, black pepper, and lemon juice into a small bowl to have ready.
Cooking and Storing the Dish
If you want to cook the entire dish ahead, follow our step-by-step guide up to the point of adding lemon juice and Parmesan. Once the broccoli is sautéed to tender-crisp perfection, let it cool completely on a plate. Transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags; this preserves the fresh, buttery flavors for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips for Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 2 days | Store in an airtight container to maintain the dish’s crispness and prevent sogginess. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Lay flat in bags to save space, and avoid overcooking initially to counteract texture loss upon thawing. |
Reheating for Optimal Flavor
When you’re ready to serve, we advise reheating gently to recapture the dish’s savory essence and cheesy appeal. For refrigerated portions, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through and the broccoli regains its bright color and slight crunch. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat as above. Always add the fresh lemon juice and Parmesan just before serving to enhance the zesty, creamy coating and ensure maximum flavor. This method keeps our Old Spaghetti Factory Broccoli Recipe as delightful as if freshly made.
Conclusion
We’ve had a blast exploring this timeless broccoli recipe with you. It’s a straightforward way to capture that cozy Italian vibe right at home.
We’re confident it’ll elevate your family gatherings and become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and let its fresh flavors shine in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Old Spaghetti Factory broccoli recipe?
The Old Spaghetti Factory’s broccoli recipe is a simple, delicious side dish featuring fresh broccoli florets sautéed with garlic, butter, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. It captures the restaurant’s Italian charm with a garlicky, cheesy flavor, enhanced by lemon juice for a zesty twist. This easy copycat version is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, emphasizing fresh ingredients for an authentic taste.
What ingredients are needed for the Old Spaghetti Factory broccoli dish?
Key ingredients include fresh broccoli florets, minced garlic, unsalted butter, extra-virgin olive oil, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Focus on high-quality items to capture the dish’s fresh, garlicky essence and creamy appeal, making it a flavorful addition to any meal.
What equipment is required to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a cutting board, chef’s knife for prepping ingredients, a large skillet for cooking, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a cheese grater for Parmesan, an optional steamer basket, a mixing bowl, and tongs or a spatula for stirring. These tools ensure a smooth process for this straightforward recipe.
How do I make the Old Spaghetti Factory broccoli at home?
Start by rinsing and prepping broccoli, mincing garlic, and grating cheese. Sauté garlic in butter and olive oil, add broccoli, season with salt and pepper, and cook until tender-crisp. Finish by stirring in lemon juice and Parmesan for a creamy coating. Serve hot for the best flavor, evoking the restaurant’s charm in about 15-20 minutes.
Can I make this broccoli dish ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Cook the dish fully and store in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. For optimal taste, reheat in a skillet and add fresh lemon juice and Parmesan before serving to maintain its zesty, creamy texture without much hassle.
How should I store and reheat leftovers of this recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm refrigerated portions in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed. For frozen, thaw first, then reheat and refresh with lemon juice and Parmesan to preserve the dish’s vibrant flavor.