Cheesy Broccoli Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Broccoli is a simple, comforting side dish that combines tender broccoli with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for adding a flavorful twist to your meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound broccoli (cut into florets, about 6 cups)
• Water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk (1% recommended)
• 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus additional to taste)
• Pinch ground mustard (optional)
• Pinch cayenne (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the broccoli florets in a large saucepan. Add enough water to cover the bottom of the pan with a thin layer (about 1 cup), making sure the broccoli is not submerged. Bring to a simmer over high heat, cover, and cook until the broccoli turns bright green and is crisp-tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain and transfer the broccoli to a bowl, then cover to keep warm.
2. Step 2: Wipe the saucepan dry using a towel. Melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk constantly until the flour turns golden, about 1 minute.
3. Step 3: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly, around 3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the cheddar cheese in small handfuls, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more to avoid clumping. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and the optional ground mustard and cayenne. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a bit more salt if desired.
5. Step 5: Serve the broccoli warm with the cheese sauce poured over the top, or gently stir the broccoli into the sauce and serve mixed.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother sauce, warm the milk slightly before adding it to the flour and butter mixture.
• Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
• Try using different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique twist.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer before adding the cheese.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much when cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain it before steaming as described to avoid excess water in the dish.

What can I substitute for the milk?

You can use any type of milk or milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk, but whole or 2% milk will provide the creamiest result.

Cheesy Broccoli Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 64 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Cheesy Broccoli recipe features tender steamed broccoli topped with a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce, enhanced with Parmesan, salt, and optional mustard and cayenne for a subtle kick. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal that combines fresh veggies with comforting cheesy goodness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 pound broccoli, cut into florets (about 6 cups florets)
• Water (enough to create a thin layer in the pan, about 1 cup)

Cheese Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk (1% milk used)
• 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus additional to taste)
• Pinch ground mustard (optional)
• Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

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Instructions

1. Steam: Place the broccoli florets in a large saucepan and add enough water to just cover the bottom of the pan, about 1 cup. Bring the water to a simmer over high heat, then cover the pan and let the broccoli steam until bright green and crisp-tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain the broccoli and transfer to a bowl, covering it to keep warm.
2. Prepare the Roux: Carefully wipe the saucepan dry with a towel. Melt the butter in the pan over medium-low heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly until the flour turns a golden color, about 1 minute, ensuring it does not burn.
3. Add Milk and Thicken: Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to simmer and whisk the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls, allowing each addition to fully melt to avoid clumping. Stir in the grated Parmesan, kosher salt, and optionally, ground mustard and cayenne pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
5. Serve: Serve the steamed broccoli warm with the cheese sauce spooned over the top, or gently stir the broccoli into the sauce for a mixed presentation. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

• Using 1% milk helps keep the sauce creamy but less heavy.
• For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly according to taste.
• Make sure to whisk continuously when adding flour and milk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheesy broccoli, steamed broccoli, broccoli cheese sauce, easy side dish, vegetables with cheese