Blue Cheese Broccoli
Creamy blue cheese broccoli combines bold flavors with tender vegetables, making it a perfect side dish for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan.
- Blend in flour, cream cheese, and blue cheese until smooth.
- Add milk and stir until the mixture boils.
- Stir in cooked broccoli.
- Pour mixture into a 1-quart casserole dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a full-fat cream cheese. If you prefer a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese can be a great substitute. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen—just steam it briefly before adding it to the sauce. For added flavor, a pinch of garlic powder or some freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the dish. This recipe is a delicious way to enjoy American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Blue Cheese Broccoli as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted chicken. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a light pasta dish or as a topping for baked potatoes. This dish also complements other vegetarian recipes well, making it a versatile choice for any table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli mixture in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. Avoid overcooking as it can dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blue Cheese Broccoli contains roughly 846 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 750mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of blue cheese?
Yes, you can substitute blue cheese with other cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste, cheddar or mozzarella can also work well, keeping in mind that the overall taste will change.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Blue Cheese Broccoli gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch. Additionally, ensure that the Ritz crackers used for the topping are gluten-free or replace them with crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the broccoli mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the casserole and add the crushed crackers right before baking to maintain their crunch. This makes it a great option for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).