Bowl of creamy cheesy broccoli garnished with herbs

Cheesy Broccoli

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Below is a simple recipe for Cheesy Broccoli you can make at home.

introduction

Cheesy Broccoli is a warm, creamy side dish. It uses fresh broccoli and melted cheddar. It is easy and fast. Kids and adults like it.

why make this recipe

  • It cooks fast.
  • It makes plain broccoli taste rich.
  • It pairs well with chicken, fish, or rice.
  • It uses common ingredients you likely have.

how to make Cheesy Broccoli

  1. Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-size florets.
  2. Steam or boil the broccoli until just tender, about 4–5 minutes. Drain well.
  3. Make a cheese sauce: melt butter in a pan, stir in flour, then slowly add milk while whisking until smooth and thick.
  4. Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Toss the cooked broccoli with the cheese sauce until well coated.
  6. Serve warm.

Ingredients :

  • 1 pound fresh broccoli florets (Provides vitamins and minerals)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Key ingredient for creaminess)
  • 1 cup milk (Whole or 2% milk for creaminess)
  • 3 tablespoons butter (Adds richness to the sauce)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (Thickens the sauce)
  • to taste salt (Enhances flavor)
  • to taste pepper (Enhances flavor)

Directions :

Preparation

  • Rinse broccoli and cut into florets.
  • Measure cheese, milk, butter, and flour.
  • Preheat a pot of water for steaming or boiling.

Cooking

  • Steam or boil broccoli 4–5 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain well.
  • In a medium pan, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Stir in flour and cook 1 minute to remove raw flour taste.
  • Slowly add milk, whisking until sauce thickens.
  • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar until melted.
  • Season with salt and pepper. Mix sauce with broccoli and serve.

how to serve Cheesy Broccoli

  • Serve hot as a side dish.
  • Place over rice or baked potato for a simple meal.
  • Top with extra shredded cheese or a light sprinkle of paprika.

how to store Cheesy Broccoli

  • Cool to room temperature before storing.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk if sauce is thick.

tips to make Cheesy Broccoli

  • Do not overcook broccoli; it should stay firm and bright.
  • Grate your own cheese for better melt and flavor.
  • Whisk milk in slowly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
  • Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.

variation (if any)

  • Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the sauce.
  • Stir in cooked bacon pieces or ham for a meaty version.
  • Use a mix of cheeses (cheddar and Monterey Jack) for different flavor.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
  • Yes. Thaw and drain well, then follow the same steps.
  1. Can I use low-fat milk?
  • Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. Add a little more cheese to thicken and add flavor.
  1. How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?
  • Remove the pan from high heat before adding cheese and stir until smooth. Do not overheat after cheese is in.
  1. Can I bake this dish?
  • Yes. Place mixed broccoli and cheese in a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly.

Conclusion

For a quick version and more tips, see this Quick Broccoli and Cheese {Ready in 15 Minutes!}.