Learn how to make steamed broccoli in the microwave in just minutes! The microwave makes steaming broccoli quick, simple, and energy efficient. You can add your microwave steamed broccoli to any meal to get in your veggies and to help build your plant forward meal.

Start with a head of broccoli or a bag of uncooked broccoli for the quickest method, and use this recipe to steam it in no time. Broccoli is a delicious, nutrient dense option to add to any Buddha Bowl too! This recipe is simple and easy to follow and would be a great first veggie recipe to teach your kids how to make on their own too! 

Why This Microwave Steamed Broccoli Recipe Works

• Microwave cooking is more energy efficient because it sends nearly all of its energy into the food. 
• Fast and easy with a quick clean up! No need to dirty any pans on the stove. 
• Our recipe testers say,
  • “I just taught my kid how to make his first vegetable using this steamed broccoli recipe and I am SO excited he can make veggies on his own now!”
  • “Thanks so much for this super easy recipe. We make steamed broccoli in the microwave a few times of week because it’s so simple.” 

Ingredients For Microwaved Steamed Broccoli  

• A head of broccoli or a bag of uncooked broccoli pieces 
• Water 
• Butter, salt, and black pepper (see below for more ideas)

How to Make Steamed Broccoli in the Microwave 

1. Cut up broccoli into small florets and peel the stalks and cut into small circles.  
2. Place broccoli and water into a large microwave safe bowl and cover with a plate or microwave safe lid.
3. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes. Give it a poke with a fork to check if it is cooked to your liking.
4. Transfer to a serving dish, top with butter, season with salt and pepper and enjoy!

Great Flavor Combinations

Garlic and Herbs. Drizzle your chopped steamed broccoli with olive oil and add any minced herbs such as chives, oregano, and basil. Grate fresh garlic over and sprinkle on salt and toss together. 

Salt and Pepper. Keep it simple with a pat of high quality butter, salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Kosher salt is definitely best here! 

Acidic and Cheesy. Once your broccoli is steamed, grate some lemon zest and squeeze some juice over your broccoli. Grate some fresh parmesan over it and toss together with some black pepper. The more cheese and lemon – the better! 

How can I Enjoy my Microwave Steamed Broccoli? 

Buddha Bowls! You all know we love our Buddha Bowls over here at Steamy Kitchen HQ and there is no better vehicle to load up on veggies as Buddha Bowls. Try our the microwaved steamed broccoli in this Grilled Chicken Bowl with Sweet and Tangy Mango Sauce and this Roasted Tofu Buddha Bowl with Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce.

Mac and Cheese! We say why not take a perfectly healthy steamed veggie and throw it into an utterly delicious and mouth watering mac and cheese! We suggest making this for dinner because it will put you to sleep in the best possible way. Try this Cheddar Broccoli Mac and Cheese for the most soul warming dinner! 

Beef and Broccoli. Try this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe to satisfy all of your Chinese food cravings! Start making a pot of rice at the same time as your stir fry and dinner will be ready in a flash! 

In an Omelet. When in doubt, chop it up and toss it in an omelette or frittata. One of the easiest ways to get plenty of protein and vegetables in one meal. Add some cheese and crumbled sausage or bacon for a real treat! 

Print

How to Steam Broccoli in the Microwave

Steam broccoli for a delicious side dish in just 5 minutes! Depening on how many watts your microwave is, cook time may vary.

Prep Time1 minute min

Active Time5 minutes mins

Total Time6 minutes mins

Course: sides

Keyword: steamed broccoli

Equipment

• Pyrex Deep Baking Dish Set with Lids
• Zwilling Twin Signature 8 inch Chef Knife
• Extra Large Bamboo Cutting Board

Materials

• 1 large head of broccoli in small florets
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon butter
• salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

• Cut up broccoli into small florets and peel the stalks and cut into small circles.
• Place broccoli and water into a large microwave safe bowl and cover with a plate or microwave safe lid.
• Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes. Give it a poke with a fork to check if it is cooked to your liking.
• Transfer to a serving dish, top with butter, season with salt and pepper and enjoy!