Broccoli A La Mary
A creamy broccoli dish with cheesy sauce and crunchy breadcrumb topping, perfect as a comforting side or light main for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a sauce by melting butter, then stirring in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Add cream cheese and half of the shredded Cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine frozen broccoli with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with bread crumbs mixed with melted butter and remaining Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a healthier option, swap the Cheddar for a reduced-fat cheese. To boost flavor, add minced garlic or onion to the butter before adding flour. If you have fresh broccoli, blanch it briefly before combining with the sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Orange Blossom Cooler.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Broccoli A La Mary as a delightful side dish alongside grilled chicken or baked fish. It complements a fresh salad or crusty bread well. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with American recipes like a classic meatloaf. This dish can also be a vegetarian option when served with hearty grains like quinoa.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, to maintain the texture of the cheese sauce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli A La Mary contains roughly 494 calories, with 12g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2262mg per serving (98% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding it to the cheese sauce. This will help retain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese sauce and combine it with broccoli a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then bake it right before serving. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Just make sure to check the labels of your cheese and other ingredients to ensure they are also gluten-free.
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).