Cheesy Broccoli

This Cheesy Broccoli recipe is the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s not only kid-friendly and delicious, but it also comes together in just 25 minutes! The creamy homemade cheese sauce makes this dish stand out, making it perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals alike. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or a hearty beef stew, this cheesy delight will surely be a hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Friendly: With its creamy cheese sauce, even picky eaters will love the taste of broccoli.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with a variety of main dishes like chicken, beef, or turkey.
• Homemade Goodness: The cheese sauce is made from scratch, ensuring fresh flavors without preservatives.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with vitamins and minerals from broccoli while being a comforting treat.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this cheesy broccoli requires some basic kitchen tools that make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Essential for cooking the broccoli evenly without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Helps in creating a smooth cheese sauce by preventing lumps as you mix the ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Keeps the cooked broccoli warm while preparing the cheese sauce.

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Ingredients

For this cheesy broccoli recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Broccoli

• 1 pound broccoli (cut into florets (about 6 cups florets))
• Water

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk (I used 1%)
• 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)

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

1. Place the broccoli in a large saucepan. Cover with enough water to create a thin layer across the bottom of the pan (about 1 cup).
2. Bring to a simmer over high heat. Cover and let simmer until bright green and crisp-tender, about 4 to 5 minutes.
3. Drain the broccoli and place it in a bowl. Cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Wipe the pan dry with a towel. Add butter over medium-low heat until melted.
2. Sprinkle flour over melted butter and whisk constantly until golden, about 1 minute.
3. Slowly pour in milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Cheese and Seasonings

1. Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in cheddar cheese by small handfuls, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more.
2. Stir in Parmesan, salt, mustard, and cayenne (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the cheesy broccoli warm with sauce on top or gently mixed together for an inviting side dish that complements any meal!

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli

Cheesy broccoli is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Whether you want it as a side or part of a larger spread, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this creamy delight.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for a balanced meal that combines protein with the creamy richness of cheesy broccoli.
• Serve alongside roasted turkey for a festive touch that enhances the flavors of both dishes.

Mixed Into Pasta

• Toss cheesy broccoli with your favorite pasta for an easy, comforting dish. The cheese sauce adds flavor and creaminess to every bite.
• Combine with whole grain pasta for a healthier twist, offering more fiber and nutrients.

On Top of Baked Potatoes

• Spoon cheesy broccoli over baked potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. This combination creates a delicious comfort food option.
• Add some extra cheese on top before baking for an even cheesier experience.

As Part of a Salad

• Incorporate cheesy broccoli into a warm salad with quinoa and mixed greens for an unexpected twist. The warmth of the broccoli complements the freshness of the greens.
• Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the cheese sauce.

How to Perfect Cheesy Broccoli

Creating perfect cheesy broccoli is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh florets provide the best texture and flavor. Choose bright green, firm heads when shopping.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook the broccoli until it’s just crisp-tender. This will keep its vibrant color and nutritional value.
• Whisk Constantly: When making the cheese sauce, whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
• Gradually Add Cheese: Mix in cheese slowly, allowing each batch to melt completely before adding more. This keeps the sauce smooth.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and seasoning throughout cooking, ensuring your cheesy broccoli has just the right balance of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Broccoli

Cheesy broccoli pairs wonderfully with many dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Tender and juicy, grilled chicken adds protein and complements the creaminess of cheesy broccoli perfectly.
2. Roasted Turkey Breast: A flavorful addition during holiday meals; its savory notes balance well with cheesy vegetables.
3. Quinoa Salad: A healthy choice packed with protein that adds texture and freshness alongside cheesy broccoli.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a classic duo that everyone loves.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, or beef create a visually appealing plate when served with cheesy broccoli.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with rich cheese sauce for an exciting flavor combination.
7. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A medley of colorful veggies sautéed quickly can add crunch and freshness alongside cheesy goodness.
8. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors nicely while providing a light base under cheesy broccoli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cheesy broccoli, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the blanching step: Not blanching the broccoli can lead to a mushy texture. Always simmer the broccoli briefly in water before adding it to the cheese sauce for optimal crispness.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long can make it lose its vibrant color and nutrients. Aim for 4-5 minutes of simmering until bright green and just tender.
• Adding cheese too quickly: If you add all the cheese at once, it may clump together. Gradually whisk in small amounts of cheese to ensure a smooth sauce.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can dull the flavor of your dish. Taste your cheese sauce and adjust with salt or optional spices like mustard and cayenne for extra kick.
• Using low-quality cheese: Poor quality cheese may not melt well, affecting the sauce’s creaminess. Opt for good-quality cheddar and Parmesan for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy broccoli will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Broccoli

• Place cooled cheesy broccoli in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, expect some texture changes upon reheating.

Reheating Cheesy Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring continuously until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about cheesy broccoli that might help you perfect your dish.

How do I make cheesy broccoli from scratch?

To make cheesy broccoli from scratch, follow our recipe which includes blanching broccoli and creating a homemade cheese sauce with cheddar and Parmesan.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time as frozen florets may cook faster than fresh ones.

What are some variations of cheesy broccoli?

You can customize your cheesy broccoli by adding ingredients like garlic powder, sautéed onions, or even cooked chicken or turkey for added protein.

How do I store leftover cheesy broccoli?

Leftover cheesy broccoli should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for two months.

Final Thoughts

This cheesy broccoli recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different cheeses or vegetables. Try it as a side dish for dinner or mix it into pasta for a comforting meal!