That frozen broccoli in your freezer isn’t getting any younger, so it’s time to put it to work. Instead of letting it sit there like a forgotten science experiment, turn it into a meal that actually earns a spot on your table. From casseroles to soups to quick pasta dishes, these recipes are proof that frozen veggies don’t have to be boring.
Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli
This creamy spaghetti alfredo is lightened up with the addition of broccoli, creating a balanced meal that’s easy to whip up. It’s a practical way to include veggies without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli
Shaved Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry
Thinly sliced beef and broccoli come together in minutes for a quick stir-fry dinner. The rich sauce delivers takeout-level flavor with the convenience of using frozen broccoli.
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Creamy Broccoli Soup
This broccoli soup is rich and comforting, topped with crispy shallots for added texture. It’s a quick dinner option that makes excellent use of frozen broccoli.
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Parmesan Lemon Chicken and Broccoli
Bright flavors of lemon and Parmesan pair with chicken and broccoli in this 20-minute meal. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and a practical way to make dinner with frozen broccoli.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Lemon Chicken and Broccoli
Chicken, Broccoli, & Rice Casserole with Curry
This comforting casserole brings together tender chicken, broccoli, and rice with a subtle curry flavor. It’s a great way to use up that half bag of frozen broccoli lingering in the freezer. You can prep it ahead, freeze it for later, or bake it fresh for a satisfying family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken, Broccoli, & Rice Casserole with Curry
Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
Ready in minutes, this Instant Pot mac and cheese is the dinner shortcut you didn’t know you needed. Creamy and versatile, it’s easy to toss in frozen broccoli or some leftover ham for a one-pot meal the whole family will love.
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Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creamy and packed with flavor, this broccoli cheddar soup is a great way to turn frozen broccoli into a weeknight dinner. It’s dairy-free, takes just 15 minutes, and delivers that cheesy taste without any cheese. Perfect for a quick, veggie-packed meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Buffalo Ranch Cauliflower and Broccoli
This freezer-friendly side dish is as practical as it is flavorful. A mix of broccoli and cauliflower gets coated in buffalo ranch seasoning for a bold addition to your dinner table. It’s a quick way to make veggies exciting.
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Italian Broccoli Pasta with Pecorino and Lemon
This pasta dish comes together in less than 30 minutes with broccoli, garlic, Pecorino cheese, and lemon. The cooked broccoli transforms into a creamy sauce, turning basic ingredients into a dish that feels anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Italian Broccoli Pasta with Pecorino and Lemon
Broccoli Cornbread with Cheese
Cheddar and broccoli take cornbread to another level, making it the ultimate side dish for dinner. This recipe is perfect for using up frozen broccoli and pairs well with just about anything. It’s even great as a standalone snack.
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Old Fashioned Cream of Broccoli Soup
Simple and hearty, this cream of broccoli soup is a no-fuss way to get dinner on the table quickly. Whether you include cheese or keep it plain, it’s a great use for frozen broccoli and a perfect choice for cozy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Cream of Broccoli Soup
Air Fryer Broccoli Potatoes
Tossed in olive oil and herbs, these air fryer broccoli and potatoes are a quick, easy side dish ready in just 15 minutes. The crispy texture and savory flavors make them a great addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli Potatoes
Colorful Veggie Salad with Broccoli & Cauliflower
This vibrant salad is packed with broccoli, cauliflower, and colorful veggies like carrots and bell peppers. A sprinkle of cheese ties everything together, making it a fresh and simple option for dinner.
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Vegetable Stew with Onion, Broccoli, and Cauliflower
This hearty vegetable stew features broccoli and cauliflower alongside onions in a flavorful broth. It’s an easy way to turn frozen broccoli into a filling meal that warms you up on chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stew with Onion, Broccoli, and Cauliflower
Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
Roasted broccoli gets an upgrade with garlic and Parmesan. Tossed in olive oil and baked to perfection, it’s a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs well with any main course.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
Southern Broccoli Casserole
Packed with broccoli, creamy chicken soup, and a buttery cracker topping, this casserole is always a hit at family dinners. It’s an easy way to use frozen broccoli and deliver a crowd-pleasing dish.
Get the Recipe: Southern Broccoli Casserole
Creamy Chicken Pasta Broccoli Casserole
This casserole brings together chicken, pasta, and broccoli in a creamy, satisfying base. It’s a go-to comfort food and a great way to make use of frozen broccoli for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Pasta Broccoli Casserole
Crockpot Orange Chicken
Sweet and savory, this crockpot orange chicken is perfect for busy days. Toss everything in the slow cooker, and a flavorful dinner is ready by evening. Frozen broccoli can easily be added for extra veggies.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Orange Chicken
Easy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
This simple casserole combines broccoli and cheese for a dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a reliable option for dinner when time is short, and it makes good use of that frozen broccoli stash.
Get the Recipe: Easy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.