How to Steam Broccoli

A steam basket full of broccoli in a saucepan.

Master How to Steam Broccoli to enjoy as a side dish or to add to pasta recipes, casseroles, and beyond. Healthy dinner side dish recipes need not be fussy; it takes just 15 minutes to make this steamed broccoli "recipe."

Course Pantry, Salad

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Cooling Time 5

Total Time 20

Servings servings (1/2 cup each)

Calories 51kcal

Author Meggan Hill

Equipment

1 Steamer basket (see note 1)

Ingredients

1 pound broccoli florets (see note 2)

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a medium or large saucepan, add 1 inch of water. Add steamer basket (with feet extended) and bring to boil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli to steamer basket.
Reduce heat to medium, cover, and steam for 4 to 5 minutes (or until desired doneness is reached).

Notes

Steamer basket: This OXO stainless steel steamer basket is simple, but it gets the job done, and it's been my go-to for years. See more options in The Best Steamer Baskets.
Broccoli: Choose bright green broccoli that has a firm stalk without yellowing florets or brown spots. Broccoli should feel heavy for its size. Whole broccoli should be stored in an open bag in the refrigerator. Use broccoli within 3-4 days. Cut the fresh broccoli florets into pieces of uniform size for steaming so they cook evenly.
Yield: This recipe makes 6 servings (1/2 cup steamed broccoli each). 1 pound broccoli yields about 6 cups raw florets or 3 cups steamed florets.
Storage: Store leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition