Elevate your side dish game with this irresistible Broccoli with Cheese recipe, a classic pairing that combines vibrant, tender broccoli florets with a rich, velvety cheddar cheese sauce. Featuring a simple yet satisfying homemade cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar, this dish strikes the perfect balance of creamy indulgence and wholesome vegetables. Seasoned with a hint of black pepper and optional cayenne for subtle heat, this recipe is quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or as a comforting holiday side dish. Perfect for family dinners, this cheesy broccoli dish will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a pop of color to your table. Whether served alongside roasted meats or enjoyed on its own, itβs bound to become a favorite!
Start by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the broccoli florets.
Cook the broccoli for 4-5 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook them as they will lose their crunch and nutrients.
Drain the broccoli in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once the butter is melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a smooth paste with no lumps.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Continue to cook and stir the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, and give it a final stir.
Transfer the steamed broccoli into a serving dish and pour the hot cheese sauce over the top.
Gently toss the broccoli in the sauce to ensure even coating, then serve immediately.
Calories |
1320 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 94.7 g | 121% | |
| Saturated Fat | 59.8 g | 299% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 308 mg | 103% | |
| Sodium | 2869 mg | 125% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 55.1 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.6 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.7 g | ||
| Protein | 78.1 g | 156% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.0 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 1997 mg | 154% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 652 mg | 14% | |
*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.