Turn mealtime into a comforting experience with this irresistible Broccoli Cheese recipe—an easy-to-make dish that combines tender, vibrant broccoli florets with a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfectly seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, this quick side dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads. The blanching technique ensures the broccoli stays crisp and vibrant, while the homemade cheese sauce adds indulgent flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether served alongside roasted meats or as a vegetarian main, this family-friendly recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water and blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes, until they become bright green and just tender.
Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. After a minute, drain well and set aside.
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously to form a smooth paste. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbling.
Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring that no lumps form. Continue to whisk and cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Add the drained broccoli florets to the cheese sauce and gently fold to coat the broccoli evenly.
Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish or as part of your main meal.
Calories |
1420 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 104.0 g | 133% | |
| Saturated Fat | 66.6 g | 333% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 335 mg | 112% | |
| Sodium | 2873 mg | 125% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 55.2 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.4 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.2 g | ||
| Protein | 83.0 g | 166% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.2 mcg | 26% | |
| Calcium | 2241 mg | 172% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 847 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.