Description
This Cheesy Broccoli is a classic, kid-friendly side dish featuring tender broccoli topped with a rich and creamy homemade cheddar cheese sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli, cut into florets (about 6 cups)
- Water (about 1 cup)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk (1% or preferred milk)
- 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional to taste
- Pinch ground mustard (optional)
- Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
1. Place the broccoli in a large saucepan. Add enough water to create a thin layer across the bottom of the pan (about 1 cup; the broccoli will not be fully submerged). Bring to a simmer over high heat.
2. Cover and simmer until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain, transfer to a bowl, and cover to keep warm.
3. Carefully wipe the pan dry. Add the butter and melt over medium-low heat.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk constantly until the flour turns golden, about 1 minute.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to simmer and whisk until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to low. Add the cheddar cheese a small handful at a time, whisking until fully melted before adding more.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, ground mustard, and cayenne (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
8. Serve the broccoli warm with the cheese sauce poured over the top, or gently stir the broccoli into the sauce before serving.
Notes
To store, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
To freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary.