Delicious Cheesy Broccoli

This cheesy broccoli recipe transforms the humble vegetable into a crowd-pleasing side dish that even the pickiest eaters will devour. The homemade cheese sauce elevates simple steamed broccoli into something truly special with its velvety texture and rich flavor that coats each floret perfectly.

I first made this cheesy broccoli when trying to get my nephew to eat more vegetables. What started as a desperate attempt to include greens in his diet has become our family's most requested side dish for nearly every gathering.

Ingredients

• Fresh broccoli: Perfect for soaking up the cheese sauce. Look for bright green heads with tight florets and firm stalks.
• Butter: Forms the base of our roux for a silky sauce. Use unsalted to control the sodium.
• All purpose flour: Works with butter to thicken the sauce. Measure carefully for best results.
• Milk: Creates the creamy base. I use 1% for the perfect balance of richness and lightness.
• Cheddar cheese: Provides the classic flavor. Choose a sharp variety for more pronounced taste.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and umami. Fresh grated melts much better than pre packaged.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors. The larger crystals make it easier to control seasoning.
• Ground mustard: Optional but recommended. Amplifies the cheese flavor without adding a mustard taste.
• Cayenne: Optional for gentle heat. Just a pinch transforms the dish without making it spicy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Steam the Broccoli:

Add broccoli florets to a large saucepan with just enough water to create a thin layer at the bottom. Bring to a simmer over high heat then cover the pan. Let cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and becomes crisp tender. Immediately drain to prevent overcooking and cover to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Create the Roux:

Carefully wipe the same pan dry and return to medium low heat. Add butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted sprinkle the flour evenly over the butter. Whisk continuously for a full minute until the mixture turns golden. This cooking process eliminates the raw flour taste and creates the foundation for a smooth sauce.

Develop the Base Sauce:

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking as the mixture simmers for about 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. You will notice the consistency change from liquid to a sauce that coats the back of a spoon. Maintain even heat to prevent scorching.

Add the Cheese:

Reduce heat to low to prevent the cheese from separating. Add cheddar cheese in small handfuls waiting for each addition to fully melt before adding more. This gradual process ensures a smooth sauce without clumping. After cheddar is incorporated add Parmesan cheese salt ground mustard and cayenne if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Combine and Serve:

You have two serving options. Pour the cheese sauce over the steamed broccoli for presentation or gently fold the broccoli into the sauce for more even coverage. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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The ground mustard in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered it years ago when trying to figure out why restaurant cheese sauces always tasted better than mine at home. This tiny amount gives the cheese sauce that certain something that makes people ask for the recipe without ever being able to identify the ingredient.

Make Ahead Options

This cheesy broccoli can be prepped in advance to make weeknight dinners easier. Steam the broccoli up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The cheese sauce can also be made separately and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to serve simply reheat both components gently. The sauce may need a splash of milk when reheating to restore its creamy consistency. Combine just before serving for the freshest results.

Variations to Try

Once you master this basic cheese sauce you can create countless variations. For a smoky flavor add a quarter teaspoon of smoked paprika. Create a spicier version with diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Make it extra indulgent by using half and half instead of milk or mixing in different cheese varieties like Gruyère or fontina. You can also apply this sauce to other vegetables like cauliflower asparagus or a medley of your favorites.

Nutritional Benefits

This cheesy broccoli offers more nutritional value than you might expect from such a comforting dish. Broccoli is packed with fiber vitamin C vitamin K and numerous antioxidants. When paired with the protein and calcium from the cheese you get a well rounded side dish that contributes meaningfully to your daily nutritional needs. For those watching carbohydrates this recipe is naturally low carb while still providing satisfying richness.

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You can now make cheesy broccoli like a pro. Your family and friends are going to love this dish on every occasion!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I know when the broccoli is perfectly cooked?

The broccoli is perfectly cooked when it turns bright green and is crisp-tender - meaning you can pierce it with a fork but it still has a slight crunch. This usually takes 4-5 minutes of steaming. Avoid overcooking as broccoli can quickly become mushy.

→ Why is my cheese sauce lumpy?

Lumpy cheese sauce usually happens when cheese is added too quickly or the heat is too high. To avoid lumps, add cheese in small handfuls, allowing each addition to fully melt before adding more. Also, be sure to reduce heat to low before adding cheese, and whisk constantly during the entire process.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. You'll need to adjust the cooking time since frozen broccoli is partially cooked. Steam it for about 2-3 minutes until heated through but still crisp. Pat it dry before adding the cheese sauce to prevent watering down the sauce.

→ What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

You can substitute the cheddar with other melting cheeses like Colby, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even American cheese for a smoother sauce. For a different flavor profile, try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or smoked gouda for a smoky element.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

To make this dish healthier, use skim milk instead of 1%, reduce the amount of cheese, or use reduced-fat cheese options. You can also increase the broccoli-to-cheese ratio, serving more broccoli with a smaller amount of sauce drizzled over the top rather than coating each piece completely.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Cauliflower makes an excellent addition and cooks at about the same rate as broccoli. You could also add carrots (sliced thin to cook evenly), bell peppers, or even Brussels sprouts. Just be mindful of differing cooking times and add vegetables accordingly to ensure they're all properly cooked.