Description
This Cheesy Broccoli recipe features tender steamed broccoli florets smothered in a creamy, rich cheddar cheese sauce made from a simple roux and milk. It’s a delicious, comforting side dish perfect for adding a nutritious, cheesy twist to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli
- 1 pound broccoli, cut into florets (about 6 cups florets)
- Water, enough for steaming (about 1 cup)
Cheese Sauce
- 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 pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Steam the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in a large saucepan and add enough water to create a thin layer across the bottom, about 1 cup or so, without covering the broccoli. Bring the water to a simmer over high heat, then cover the pan and cook until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain well and transfer the broccoli to a bowl, covering to keep warm.
- Prepare the Roux: Using a towel, carefully wipe the pan dry. Place it back on medium-low heat and melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter. Whisk constantly to cook the flour until it turns golden, about 1 full minute, to form the roux.
- Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Let the mixture simmer, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
- Melt in the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese a small handful at a time, whisking continuously to allow each addition to fully melt before adding more to avoid clumping. Once all cheddar is incorporated, stir in the Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and if desired, a pinch of ground mustard and cayenne pepper.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning by adding extra salt if needed. Serve the steamed broccoli warm with the cheese sauce drizzled over the top, or gently stir the broccoli into the cheese sauce for a mixed presentation.
Notes
- Use 1% milk or another milk of choice; whole milk will make the sauce richer, while skim will be lighter.
- The pinch of ground mustard and cayenne pepper are optional but add a nice subtle flavor depth and heat.
- Ensure to whisk constantly when adding milk and cheese to avoid lumps or clumping in the sauce.
- Broccoli should be cooked until just tender to retain its bright color and slight crunch.
- For a lower-fat version, reduce the butter and cheese amounts or use reduced-fat cheeses.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy broccoli, steamed broccoli, cheese sauce, side dish, cheddar cheese sauce, easy vegetable recipe
