Cheesed Broccoli
Creamy and cheesy broccoli dish featuring tender frozen broccoli spears coated in a rich mayonnaise and American cheese sauce. Perfect as a comforting side or easy appetizer, it pairs well with grilled meats or casual family dinners, delivering bold flavors and a smooth, cheesy texture that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to package directions; drain.
- In a saucepan, over low heat, combine mayonnaise, shredded American cheese, and milk.
- Heat, stirring until cheese melts and mixture is smooth.
- Serve the cheese sauce over the cooked broccoli.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider substituting sour cream for half of the mayonnaise. If you prefer a sharper flavor, use aged cheddar instead of American cheese. To enhance the dish, add garlic powder or a dash of cayenne pepper. This recipe can also be made with fresh broccoli; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a fun twist, serve it alongside Chewy Bars for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesed broccoli pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or as a side to a hearty beef dish. You can also serve it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal. For an added crunch, top with toasted breadcrumbs or sliced almonds. It’s a great addition to any vegetarian recipes menu or as part of a holiday feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli and cheese sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesed Broccoli contains roughly 145 calories, with 3g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 14g fat.
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, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to steam or blanch it until tender before adding the cheese sauce. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your broccoli pieces to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for mayonnaise, providing creaminess with added protein. Alternatively, you could use a vegan mayonnaise for a dairy-free version, ensuring the dish remains delicious and suitable for various dietary preferences.
How can I make this dish spicy?
To add some heat to your cheesed broccoli, you can mix in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. For an extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fun twist to the classic recipe.
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).