Cheesy Broccoli Recipe
This Cheesy Broccoli recipe features tender steamed broccoli topped with a creamy, rich cheese sauce made from a smooth roux base combined with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a comforting and delicious side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop, perfect for adding cheesy goodness to your vegetable servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 pound broccoli, cut into florets (about 6 cups florets)
- Water (for steaming)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk (1% milk used)
- 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 pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Steam the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in a large saucepan. Add about 1 cup of water, just enough to create a thin layer at the bottom without covering the broccoli. Bring the water to a simmer over high heat. Cover the pan and let the broccoli simmer until bright green and crisp-tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Once done, drain the broccoli and transfer it to a bowl. Cover to keep warm.
- Prepare the Roux: With a towel, carefully wipe the saucepan dry. Place it over medium-low heat and add the butter. Allow the butter to fully melt. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the melted butter and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until the mixture turns a golden color, which cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk to Make Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Keep the mixture at a simmer and maintain constant whisking for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Season: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls, whisking well after each addition to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce without clumps. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and the optional pinch of ground mustard and cayenne pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed.
- Serve: Serve the steamed broccoli warm topped with the cheese sauce poured over it. Alternatively, gently stir the broccoli into the cheese sauce to combine and serve mixed.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to retain its bright green color and slight crispness.
- Whisking constantly is key to a smooth cheese sauce and to prevent lumps.
- Add cheddar cheese gradually to prevent the sauce from clumping.
- Ground mustard and cayenne pepper are optional but add a nice depth of flavor and a hint of spice.
- This cheese sauce can be used over other vegetables, pasta, or baked dishes.
Keywords: Cheesy broccoli, steamed broccoli, cheese sauce, vegetable side dish, stovetop recipe, easy broccoli recipe
Find it online: https://amayaharis.com/cheesy-broccoli-recipe/
