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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
