How to cook and steam broccoli in the microwave
Broccoli is a popular side dish, thanks to its nutritional benefits and delicious flavor. This popular vegetable boasts as much Vitamin C as an orange and is full of antioxidants and potassium. Fortunately, you don’t need a steamer to enjoy broccoli. Read on to find out how to steam broccoli in the microwave.
Can you microwave broccoli?
Good news—it is possible to steam broccoli in a microwave. Not only can you steam broccoli, rice and other vegetables in the microwave, but some Whirlpool brand models are equipped with a steaming container (sold separately) to lift vegetables out of the water for a crisp texture.
Can you microwave broccoli without water?
No, in order to create steam to cook broccoli in the microwave, you will need some water. However, you won’t need a large pot of boiling water––just add a few tablespoons of water to fresh or frozen broccoli.
Find more tips to make quick healthy meals and get the most out of your microwave.
Microwave steamed broccoli recipe
It doesn’t have to be time-consuming to have healthy food on hand. Follow the steps below to have a plate of steaming hot broccoli in minutes.
Yields
1—2 servings
Ingredients
- Fresh or frozen broccoli
- Water
Tools
Microwave, like the Whirlpool® 1.9 cu. ft. Capacity Steam Microwave with Sensor Cooking
Microwave-safe bowl or Whirlpool® Microwave Steaming Container
- Oven mitts
- Cooking spoon or spatula
Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
4 minutes
Total time
14 minutes
Step 1: Prep the broccoli
Rinse broccoli in warm water
Cut florets into 1 in. pieces
Step 2: Find a microwave-safe bowl
Place broccoli florets into microwave-safe bowl
Add 2–4 tablespoons of water
Tip:
If you’re using a Whirlpool® microwave with Steam Cooking and a Microwave Steaming Container, add ½ cup of water to the base, put your broccoli in the insert and cover it with the lid.
Step 3: Cover and cook the broccoli
Cover the bowl with a loose fitting lid
- Microwave broccoli on high for 3–4 minutes, depending on your wattage or choose the Steam Cooking option
Step 4: Stir the broccoli
Use oven mitts to remove the bowl from your microwave
Take the lid off carefully, as it will release steam, and stir
Avoid opening the lid in the microwave—the steam can disrupt the sensor settings
Allow the broccoli to stand for 3 minutes before serving
Tip:
To ensure the broccoli is tender and ready to eat, try piercing the broccoli with a fork. If it’s ready, you should be able to easily pierce it.
Shop Whirlpool® microwaves for steaming broccoli
Whether you’re preparing a quick side of steamed broccoli for yourself or a large serving for a family dinner, Whirlpool® microwaves deliver the quality you need. Choose from select models with features like Steam Cooking, Sensor Cooking to automatically adjust cook time as needed or CleanRelease® Non-Stick Interior for quick cleanup.
What is a good seasoning for steamed broccoli?
When it comes to seasoning steamed broccoli, salt is a reliable standby for a reason. However, there are plenty of options if you’d like to spice it up. Garlic, lemon juice and paprika are all great additions as well.
How to store steamed broccoli
You’ve steamed a piping hot plate of broccoli in the microwave—now how do you store it? Store your broccoli in the refrigerator in a sealed container to keep your cooked broccoli fresh for up to roughly 3 days.
Explore Whirlpool® microwaves
With a Whirlpool® microwave, you can cook delicious meals your family and friends will love. Count on convenient features like Steam Cooking for cooked broccoli straight from your microwave, or free up counter space with a Low Profile Over-the-Range microwave.
Learn more about kitchen possibilities with Whirlpool brand
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