Description
Broccoli with cheese sauce is a comforting and delicious vegetable side dish that combines the mild, slightly bitter flavor of steamed broccoli with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The broccoli florets are typically steamed or blanched until tender but still vibrant and crisp. The cheese sauce is made by melting butter and mixing it with flour to create a roux, then adding milk or cream to create a smooth base. Shredded cheese—often cheddar or a blend of cheeses—is stirred in until it melts into a velvety, cheesy sauce. The sauce is poured over the broccoli, creating a rich, indulgent coating that complements the vegetable’s natural flavor. Some variations may include seasonings like garlic powder, mustard, or a sprinkle of paprika for extra depth. This dish is perfect as a side for a variety of main courses, adding a creamy, cheesy element that enhances both flavor and texture, making it a popular choice for family dinners, holiday meals, and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Broccoli is the main ingredient, and fresh florets work best. You can also use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese: Grated sharp cheddar adds the best flavor to the sauce, but you can use mild cheddar or a blend of cheeses if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Butter helps form the base of the cheese sauce and adds a rich, creamy texture.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The flour is essential for thickening the sauce and creating a smooth, velvety texture.
- 1 cup milk: Milk is the liquid base of the sauce. You can use whole milk for a creamier sauce, or opt for skim or plant-based milk if you prefer.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the cheese sauce and the broccoli.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Garlic powder adds extra depth of flavor to the cheese sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional): A touch of mustard powder enhances the flavor of the cheese sauce and adds a slight tang.
Instructions
STEP 1: COOK THE BROCCOLI
The first step is to cook the broccoli until it’s tender but still vibrant green. You can steam, boil, or blanch the broccoli depending on your preference.
To steam broccoli: In a steamer basket over boiling water, steam the broccoli florets for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp-tender.
To boil broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
To blanch broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the broccoli, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This method helps preserve the bright green color and nutrients.
Once cooked, drain the broccoli and set it aside in a large serving bowl or platter. If you prefer, you can also place the broccoli on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.
STEP 2: MAKE THE CHEESE SAUCE
While the broccoli is cooking, you can start making the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the flour and whisk it together with the butter to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, but be careful not to let it brown.
Next, slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the sauce thickens. Continue to stir the sauce constantly to avoid lumps and ensure it’s smooth and creamy. Once the sauce has thickened, which should take about 3-5 minutes, add in the grated cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
At this point, season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder (if using). Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you want a thicker sauce, you can continue to cook it for another minute or two. If it’s too thick, simply add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
STEP 3: COMBINE THE BROCCOLI AND CHEESE SAUCE
Once the cheese sauce is ready, pour it generously over the cooked broccoli. Use a spoon or tongs to toss the broccoli in the cheese sauce, ensuring that each floret is well-coated. For an extra creamy dish, you can even drizzle a little more cheese sauce on top.
At this point, you can serve the broccoli with cheese sauce right away or place it in a baking dish for a cheesy, baked version.
STEP 4: OPTIONAL – BAKE FOR A BROWNED TOP
If you want to add a crispy, golden topping to your broccoli with cheese sauce, you can transfer the dish to a preheated oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top of the broccoli and cheese sauce, then bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. This step adds extra flavor and texture to the dish, making it even more irresistible.
STEP 5: SERVE AND ENJOY
Once the broccoli with cheese sauce is ready, serve it immediately as a delicious side dish. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian main course like baked pasta or quinoa. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color if desired.
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 10g