Description
Cheesy Broccoli Delight
The ultimate classic side dish that brings comfort to the table! This cheesy broccoli recipe is perfect for any family meal, with a homemade cheese sauce that’s creamy and rich. Whether you loved broccoli as a kid or grew to love it later, the cheddar and Parmesan combo in this dish is pure nostalgia. The simplicity of this dish makes it a great pairing for chicken, beef, or pork. Get ready to turn any meal into a comforting experience with this easy, cheesy side!
1 lb broccoli florets
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 cup milk (1%)
2/3 cup shredded cheddar
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
1/4 tsp kosher salt
Pinch of ground mustard (optional)
Pinch of cayenne (optional)
Directions:
1. Steam the broccoli until crisp-tender.
2. Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking until thick.
4. Add cheese, salt, and seasonings. Stir in broccoli and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 215 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cheesy broccoli every time.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Cut 1 lb of fresh broccoli into uniform florets. Steam them for 5-7 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and preserve the color and texture. Set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and bubbling slightly, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a pale yellow paste.
- Create the Sauce Base: Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
- Finish the Cheese Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Add 2/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Season with 1/4 tsp kosher salt, and a pinch each of ground mustard and cayenne pepper if using.
- Combine and Serve: Gently fold the steamed broccoli florets into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Heat for an additional minute to ensure everything is warm, then serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile side dish elevates many mains. Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked pork chops. For a comforting vegetarian meal, spoon it over baked potatoes or fold it into cooked pasta. During holidays, it’s the perfect addition to a ham or turkey dinner. Garnish with extra black pepper, a sprinkle of paprika, or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.
How-to Summary
Steam broccoli until crisp-tender. Make a simple cheese sauce by creating a butter-flour roux, whisking in milk until thickened, and melting in cheddar and Parmesan. Combine sauce and broccoli, then serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes. Thaw and thoroughly drain frozen florets to avoid a watery sauce. You may not need to steam them; just warm them through in the sauce.
How can I make this sauce gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Make a slurry with the cold milk and cornstarch before adding it to the melted butter.
My sauce is too thick. How do I fix it? Simply whisk in additional milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can steam the broccoli and make the sauce separately, storing them in the fridge for up to a day. Reheat the sauce gently with a splash of milk, then combine with the broccoli before serving.
What other cheeses can I use? Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Fontina are excellent melting cheeses. For a stronger flavor, try adding a bit of Gruyère.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Broccoli: This leads to mushy, dull-green florets. Aim for crisp-tender.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce: High heat can cause cheese to break and become grainy. Always melt cheese over low heat.
- Not Whisking Constantly: Failing to whisk while adding milk to the roux will result in a lumpy sauce.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: These cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Shred your own from a block.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli Delight is more than a side dish; it’s a reliable way to bring creamy, comforting flavor to your table with minimal effort. Mastering the simple cheese sauce technique opens doors to countless variations. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing classic that complements any main course and turns simple ingredients into a memorable part of the meal.