Broccoli With Parmesan Sauce
Creamy broccoli with Parmesan sauce offers a rich, cheesy flavor perfect for comforting dinners or side dishes, appealing to vegetable lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Cut the broccoli into florets.
- Place the broccoli in a saucepan with 2 cups of water.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat and drain immediately.
- Place the drained broccoli in a buttered ovenproof dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding more heavy cream or even a splash of sour cream. If you're out of Parmesan, Asiago or Pecorino can be great substitutes. To enhance flavor, add minced garlic or sautéed onions to the sauce. For a healthier option, try steaming the broccoli instead of boiling to retain more nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as Tangy Chicken Legs or even a simple roast chicken. For a complete meal, serve alongside a light salad or over a bed of quinoa. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top just before serving adds a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, or reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter over medium heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli With Parmesan Sauce contains roughly 837 calories, with 18g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 591mg per serving (26% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but it may result in a softer texture. Simply follow the package instructions for cooking times, and adjust the boiling step accordingly to ensure it's tender but not mushy.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, gradually whisk in more milk or chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency. Remember to heat gently while stirring to ensure the sauce remains smooth.
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).