Cheese Broccoli
Creamy and cheesy broccoli with a rich cheddar sauce, perfect as a comforting side dish. The tender broccoli paired with a smooth, cheesy gravy makes it appealing to all ages and complements various main courses. A simple, flavorful addition to any meal that highlights classic cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add flour to the melted butter to make a roux and cook until lightly golden.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the sharp Cheddar cheese and cook until melted and smooth.
- Arrange broccoli stems facing in the middle on a serving dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier cheese sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to make this dish a bit healthier, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use whole wheat flour for the roux. For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or mustard powder to the cheese sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Vegetable Quiche.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheese broccoli as a delightful side dish to accompany grilled chicken or steak. It also pairs well with rice or quinoa for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with toasted breadcrumbs or fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or weekend gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating. You can also microwave it in short intervals, ensuring it heats evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Broccoli contains roughly 859 calories, with 7g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.
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?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for varied flavors. Just be mindful that melting properties may vary, so adjust cooking time as needed.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can create a vegan version by using plant-based butter, flour, and non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. For the cheese sauce, consider using nutritional yeast or a store-bought vegan cheese to achieve a similar creamy texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or even peas for added nutrition and color. Just make sure to blanch or steam them slightly before adding the cheese sauce to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
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).