Introduction

Cheesy broccoli is a comforting and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Tender steamed broccoli is smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes it a perfect side dish for any meal. This recipe is simple to follow and sure to please the whole family.

A close-up of a bowl filled with bright green broccoli florets covered in a creamy yellow cheese sauce, sprinkled with small black pepper pieces. The broccoli pieces have a fresh, slightly soft texture, and the cheese sauce clings smoothly to the broccoli, pooling lightly in the spaces. The bowl is white with brown specks, and there is a silver fork resting on the edge of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with subtle veining. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound broccoli, cut into florets (about 6 cups florets)
Water (for steaming)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk (1% recommended)
2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus additional to taste)
Pinch ground mustard (optional)
Pinch cayenne (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Place the broccoli florets in a large saucepan. Add about 1 cup of water, just enough to create a thin layer covering the bottom of the pan without submerging the broccoli. Bring the water to a simmer over high heat, then cover the pan and cook until the broccoli turns bright green and is crisp-tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain the broccoli and transfer it to a bowl, covering it to keep warm.
Step 2: Carefully wipe the saucepan dry with a towel. Melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, sprinkle the flour evenly over the butter and whisk constantly until the mixture turns golden and fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking as the sauce simmers and thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the cheddar cheese a small handful at a time, allowing each batch to melt fully before adding the next to avoid clumping. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and optional ground mustard and cayenne. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a pinch of salt if desired.
Step 5: Serve the steamed broccoli warm, topped with the cheese sauce, or gently stir the broccoli into the sauce before serving for a mixed dish.

Tips & Variations

Use sharp cheddar for a tangier, more intense cheese flavor.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor before serving.
Mix in cooked bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with bright green broccoli florets covered in a creamy pale yellow cheese sauce. The broccoli pieces are large and fresh, with a slightly textured surface, and the sauce clings to each floret, pooling slightly at the bottom. A silver fork is partially visible, holding a piece of broccoli coated in sauce, with a woman's hand holding it from the side. The background is a white marbled texture, adding a clean and fresh feel to the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Thaw and drain it well before steaming or heating with the sauce to avoid excess water diluting the cheese sauce.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is ideal for its melting properties and flavor. Combining it with Parmesan adds a nice depth. You can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for different tastes.