Veggie lovers and cheese enthusiasts! Are you constantly on the hunt for ways to make vegetables more exciting, especially for those picky eaters (or just for yourself after a long day)? Look no further! Today, we're diving into a classic combination that never fails to please: Broccoli with Cheese.
But
this isn't just any old cheesy broccoli. We're talking tender-crisp broccoli
florets enveloped in a rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible cheese sauce.
It's the kind of side dish that steals the show, makes everyone ask for
seconds, and might even disappear straight from the pot before it even reaches
the dinner table (we won't tell!).
This
recipe is incredibly versatile, quick to prepare, and can easily become a go-to
for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or even a comforting snack. It’s a
fantastic way to get those greens in with a delicious, cheesy twist that
everyone will love.
So,
grab your freshest head of broccoli and let's get ready to make some seriously
delicious cheesy magic!
Creamy
Cheddar Garlic Broccoli
This
recipe uses a simple stovetop cheese sauce that comes together in minutes. Feel
free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking!
Yields:
4-6 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 - 2 lbs
fresh broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons
unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic,
minced
- 2 tablespoons
all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups milk
(whole milk works best for creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon
Dijon mustard (optional, but adds a nice tang!)
- 1/4 teaspoon
onion powder
- Salt and freshly
ground black pepper to taste
- 1.5 cups
shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Pinch of red
pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
Equipment:
- Large pot for
steaming/boiling broccoli
- Medium saucepan
for cheese sauce
- Whisk
Instructions:
1.
Prepare the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water
to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until
tender-crisp. You want it cooked but still with a slight bite – avoid
overcooking, or it will become mushy. Alternatively, you can steam the broccoli
for 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside.
2.
Make the Roux: While the broccoli cooks, melt the butter
in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30
seconds until fragrant (do not let it brown). Sprinkle the flour into the
butter, whisking constantly for 1 minute to create a smooth paste (this is your
roux).
3.
Whisk in Milk & Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the
milk, a little at a time, until smooth. Continue whisking constantly to prevent
lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring, until it thickens, about
3-5 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4.
Melt the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add
the shredded cheddar cheese (and red pepper flakes, if using) to the sauce.
Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth
and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
5.
Combine and Serve: Add the drained, cooked broccoli
florets to the cheese sauce. Gently toss until all the broccoli is evenly
coated.
6.
Enjoy! Transfer the cheesy broccoli to a serving dish and
serve immediately.
Tips
for the Best Cheesy Broccoli:
- Freshly Grated
Cheese: For the smoothest sauce, grate your own cheese from a block.
Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make the
sauce grainy.
- Don't Overcook
Broccoli: Mushy broccoli is no fun! Aim for tender-crisp.
- Spice it Up: A
pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice warmth to
the cheese sauce.
- Broccoli &
Cauliflower: This recipe works beautifully with a mix of broccoli and
cauliflower, too!
There
you have it – a truly delicious and comforting Cheesy Broccoli dish that’s
guaranteed to be a hit. It’s proof that eating your greens can be incredibly
enjoyable! Give this recipe a whirl and prepare to fall in love with cheesy
broccoli all over again.
Happy
cooking!
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