When I look at the calendar and see the word “September” I feel that summer is basically over. The autumnal equinox isn’t until September 22, so technically it is still summer in the northern hemisphere. But school is back in session and the leaves on my walnut tree are starting to fall. Summer is ending, for sure.
But before I cover up the grill for the season (ok, that’s actually not going to be for a couple months) I had to share one more grilled veggie: grilled broccoli in foil.
You’ve seen my other grilled veggie posts, right? I’ve grilled zucchini, asparagus and stuffed tomatoes directly on the grill, and potatoes in foil. I’ve grilled beets both directly and in foil.
This time, I’m only grilling the broccoli in foil packets. Someday I’ll try grilling it without foil, but I was so delighted with the result when I made foil packets, that I haven’t wanted to try anything else!
What makes broccoli in foil packets so great?
For years I have steamed broccoli in the microwave. It’s so simple, and results in tender delicious broccoli in just a few minutes. I figured putting the broccoli in a foil packet and placing it on the grill would have the same effect. The moisture from the broccoli would release and the foil would enclose the heat and steam, to perfectly cook the broccoli.
I was partially correct.
In addition to the cooking action of the steam, the broccoli also gets a little browned. Because the foil is placed directly on the hot grill grate, some of that high heat causes slightly charred edges on the broccoli.
The result is a veggie that tastes both roasted and steamed, with a bit of that smokey essence that can only come from a BBQ grill. Delightful!
What goes in the foil packets?
My packets only include rinsed broccoli, a little olive oil, salt and pepper, and butter.
If you would like to play with different flavors for your grilled broccoli, here are some suggestions:
- Crushed red pepper – for a little bit of spice
- A squeeze of lemon juice – a little citrus for brightness
- Parmesan cheese – because cheese makes everything better!
If you’ve never tried grilled broccoli in foil packets, you’ll want to do it right away! And by the way, if the weather is not cooperating, you can make terrific broccoli in an air fryer. Give it a try!
Grilled Broccoli in Foil
Equipment
- Aluminum foil, heavy duty is best
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli cut up (approx. one large crown)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place broccoli pieces in the middle of a large sheet of foil.
- Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli, dot with butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover with a second sheet of foil and seal the edges well.
- Place on a preheated grill, directly on the grill grates. Close grill cover and cook 5 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Open foil packet carefully (watch for hot steam!). Broccoli will be ready to serve.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
David P Wright
What temperature for the grill?
Sula
The grill doesn't have to be a precise temperature for this, it can be whatever temp you are using for the other things you are grilling. I would estimate mine is usually 350-400F.
Blake Moon
Great ideas for summer cooking!
Sula
Thank you!
James
Add two ice cubes for moisture and forget the butter. The butter is what’s burning. Put it on after. The ice cubes add moisture slowly. Perfect every time
Sula
Interesting approach. I will give this a try! (But, I actually LIKE the charred edges) 🙂
Mihaela | https://theworldisanoyster.com/
I refuse to think the summer will end soon! I never have enough of it (I blame it on the UK's horrible weather!) We still have barbeques. Usually, I steam some of the veggies that burn easily, but I will surely try this method for broccoli. With Parmiggiano, of course! Super idea, thanks!
Sula
I'm with you! Lets not let summer end!
Cindy Mom the Lunch Lady
I love foil packets on the grill. I make everything from potatoes to veggies. So easy and delicious!
Sula
The grill just seems to add another layer of delicious, don't you think?
Emily
Broccoli is the one veggie my kid will eat and he loves this grilled version!! Thanks for the easy recipe.
Sula
How awesome that your child likes broccoli! It's so healthy!
Audrey
I had never thought about grilling broccoli before but why not?! Plus, it was great not to have to heat up my kitchen and just use the grill.
Sula
I agree, and I just love it this way!
Marie Porter
So quick, easy, and flavourful!
Sula
Yes, we love it!
Scarlet
I love grilled broccoli, it seems to concentrate the flavor. Thanks for the recipe and instructions on how to cook broccoli in foil!
Sula
Yes I think it concentrates the flavor as well. And adds that smokey essence - so good!
Angela
I have been looking for a new way to cook broccoli! I grill all the time so this looks perfect for me. Can't wait to ty it, YUM!
Sula
Oh if you like broccoli at ALL you will LOVE this!
Jennifer Allen
I love love how easy this recipe is. I made it and it was so tasty - such a great addition to our dinner! I love that there's very little cleanup, too!
Sula
Yes the "crumble up and throw away" part of clean up is a winner for me too! I'm glad you enjoyed it, thanks for letting me know.
Chichi
I love grilling almost anything in foil. Veggies are one of my favorites. This looks so good.
Sula
There's something so fun about food cooked in foil, isn't there?
Sue
Love this healthy side dish ~ we don't have a grill at the moment but we made it in the oven and the kids RAVED!
Sula
Yum - delish!
Beth Sachs
My kids love broccoli so I'm always looking for new ways to cook it. Great recipe!
Sula
Its always best when a recipe is kid friendly!
Mama Maggie's Kitchen
I can't wait to try this delicious Grilled Broccoli in Foil!
Sula
I hope you try it soon! It's delicious!
Sarah
How have I never known you could do broccoli on the grill like this, genius! Might even be able to temp the kids with this one 🙂
Sula
Anything to get the kids to eat some green stuff, I say!
Swathi
Grilled broccoli in foil looks not only delicious but also easy to make it
Sula
Yes, I love it!
Sarah James
What a great idea, can’t wait to try your recipe.
Sula
It makes perfect broccoli!
Amy
What a great idea to put in foil to get that steamed and grilled finish! I'm going to try this!
Sula
I know you'll love it!
Emily Flint
I tried this with the suggested parmesean cheese and it was a hit! Anything my child will eat is now on the list of things to make regularly. Thanks for the great broccoli recipe.
Sula
Always a win when you can find something acceptable to the kids!
Alexandra
A simple and delicious side dish - we love broccoli, and this is a great way to prepare it.
Sula
It's my new favorite!
Big Trouble
OMGGGG! Just reading about the broccoli from the grill makes my mouth water. I can't WAIT to try these! And the red pepper flakes and lemon? Ehrrrrmehhhrrghherrrd!!!
Sula
So good!