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Cheesy Broccoli

Cheesy Broccoli: The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish

This Cheesy Broccoli recipe makes a comforting side dish that's quick to prepare, perfect for any dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Broccoli
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets or frozen if necessary
  • 1 cup water for steaming
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil for a lighter sauce
  • 2 tablespoons flour can use gluten-free flour
  • 1 cup milk can substitute with almond milk or other dairy alternative
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Monterey Jack is a tasty substitute
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan option
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt add more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon ground mustard optional
  • a pinch cayenne pepper optional, adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • colander
  • whisk
  • bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Place the broccoli florets in a large saucepan and add about 1 cup of water. Cover the pan and bring it to a simmer over high heat. Steam for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is crisp-tender and bright green.
  2. Carefully drain the steamed broccoli in a colander, ensuring to eliminate excess water. Transfer to a bowl and cover with a kitchen towel.
  3. In the same saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, whisking for about 1 minute until golden.
  4. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk, avoiding lumps, and let it come to a gentle simmer, cooking for 3 minutes until thickened.
  5. Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted completely. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  6. Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of ground mustard, and a pinch of cayenne.
  7. Pour the cheese sauce over the warm broccoli or toss together, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, whisk constantly to prevent lumps in the sauce and ensure a smooth finish. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

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