Low Fat Broccoli Cheese
Indulge guilt-free with this comforting Low Fat Broccoli Cheese recipe, a lightened-up spin on a classic favorite that doesn't skimp on flavor. Featuring nutrient-packed fresh broccoli florets enveloped in a creamy, velvety cheese sauce made with low-fat cheddar, cream cheese, and milk, this dish delivers a perfect balance of richness and freshness. Aromatic garlic and onion sautéed in olive oil add depth, while a hint of paprika lends a subtle kick. Thickened with cornstarch for a silky texture and seasoned to perfection, this easy-to-make recipe is ready in just 35 minutes and serves as a healthier side dish or vegetarian main course. Perfect for family meals or cozy nights in, Low Fat Broccoli Cheese proves that comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 1 cup low-fat cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 tablespoons low-fat cream cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Begin by steaming the broccoli: In a large pot fitted with a steamer basket, add about 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Place the broccoli florets in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes or until they are tender but still vibrant green.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of the low-fat milk to create a slurry, and set aside.
In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing them until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the broth to the skillet, followed by the remaining milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the low-fat cream cheese and whisk until it is fully melted and incorporated.
Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet, whisking constantly to avoid lumps and cook until the sauce begins to thicken.
Reduce the heat to low and add the grated low-fat cheddar cheese, stirring until it's completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Gently fold in the steamed broccoli into the cheese sauce, ensuring each floret is well-coated.
Serve the low-fat broccoli cheese immediately, hot from the skillet. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
294 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.9 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.2 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 27 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 744 mg | 32% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 25.2 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.6 g | ||
| Protein | 18.9 g | 38% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 443 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 569 mg | 12% | |
*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.
