Smoked Broccoli Recipe: Charred, Smoky and Tender

Easy Smoked Broccoli – learn how to make a simple, flavorful smoked broccoli that makes a perfect side dish for any smoker meal.

A bowl of easy smoked broccoli.

Easy Smoked Broccoli

This guide shows how to prepare crisp, smoky broccoli in the smoker. It’s a fast, low-effort side that pairs well with smoked pork shoulder, smoked chicken, pork chops, meatloaf, or any main cooked on the smoker. With only a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, smoked broccoli adds a pleasant charred, smoky flavor and holds up nicely on the plate.

What You Will Need

  • Broccoli – fresh heads cut into medium bite-sized florets.
  • Olive or avocado oil – a light coating helps the broccoli crisp and encourages smoke adhesion.
  • Kosher salt – to season and enhance the broccoli’s natural flavor.

What Temperature Do You Smoke Vegetables At

For smoked broccoli, aim for a smoker temperature around 225°F (about 107°C). At this temperature the broccoli will absorb a good amount of smoke without overcooking quickly. Smoke time generally ranges from 30 to 60 minutes depending on whether you prefer a firmer, crisp bite or a softer texture. Check periodically and remove when it reaches your preferred doneness.

Spice Options to Add On Top Of The Broccoli

This recipe keeps the seasonings simple, but smoked broccoli also takes well to other flavors. Try a sprinkle of garlic powder, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a finishing grate of Parmesan cheese. Toss the spices with the oil before smoking or add delicate toppings once the broccoli comes off the smoker.

What To Serve With Smoked Broccoli

Smoked broccoli complements a wide range of smoked mains. It’s an easy add-on when you’re already barbecuing smoked chicken thighs, pork chops, brisket, or a smoked roast. It also works well with grilled or roasted proteins and pairs nicely with simple starches like mashed or roasted potatoes.

How To Make Smoked Broccoli

Prepare a grill basket or create a sturdy foil “boat” to hold the florets—spray the foil with a light nonstick oil if you’re concerned about sticking. Trim and cut broccoli into even, bite-sized florets so they cook uniformly. Place the florets in the basket, drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt. Toss gently or massage the oil and salt to coat each piece evenly.

Broccoli florets in an aluminum foil boat after being coated in olive oil and salt sprinkled on top.

Set the smoker to 225°F and place the basket of broccoli inside. Smoke for 30–60 minutes, checking for color and texture—shorter time yields firmer florets, longer time softens them and produces more shrink and char. Remove when they reach the texture you like.

Broccoli in an aluminum foil boat on the smoker.
Broccoli smoking on the smoker.

When done, remove the basket from the smoker and transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. Finish with any optional toppings or a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness, then serve immediately.

Easy smoked broccoli in an aluminum foil boat but off the smoker.
Smoked broccoli in an aluminum foil boat.

Enjoy this smoky, slightly charred vegetable as part of a balanced plate or as a flavorful side at your next barbecue.

Smoked broccoli on a plate with sliced pork tenderloin and corn.

Other Smoked Side Dishes You Might Like

Smoked asparagus
Smoked green beans
Smoked potatoes
Smoked mashed potatoes

Bowl of smoked broccoli.
5 from 1 vote

Smoked Broccoli Recipe

Author:
Erin Jensen
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
1 hr
Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins
Servings:
6 servings
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
American
Method:
Smoker
Smoked Broccoli – a quick and tasty smoked vegetable side that’s simple to prepare and full of smoky flavor.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups broccoli florets
  • olive oil or avocado oil
  • kosher salt

Instructions

  • Prep: Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Prepare a grill basket or make a sturdy foil tray; if using foil, lightly coat it with nonstick spray or oil to prevent sticking.
  • Season Broccoli: Trim and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Place them in the basket or foil tray, drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt. Toss or gently massage the oil and salt so the broccoli is evenly coated.
  • Smoke: Place the basket of prepared broccoli in the smoker and close the lid. Smoke for 30–60 minutes, checking occasionally. Pull at about 30 minutes for firmer florets or let go longer for a softer, more tender result.
  • Serve: Remove from the smoker when finished, add any finishing seasonings you like, and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Smoke Time: Smoke duration varies with smoker type, ambient conditions, and how soft you like your broccoli. Use 30 minutes for a firmer bite, 45–60 minutes for more tenderness. Around 90 minutes the florets may shrink and become quite compact. For a very soft texture, briefly steam the florets for a few minutes before smoking.
  • Check Progress: Because smokers have varying hot spots and conditions, check the broccoli periodically and adjust time as needed. Look for a nice green color with slight browning at the edges and the level of tenderness you prefer.
Calories
52kcal

Nutrition

Calories: 52kcal
|
Carbohydrates: 6 g
|
Protein: 3 g
|
Fat: 3 g
|
Sodium: 224 mg
|
Vitamin C: 81 mg

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