Teresa's Recipes
Cheesy Broccoli Delight
This luscious side dish transforms humble steamed broccoli into a decadent experience, enveloped in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts, this dish brings a touch of comfort to your table and is a delightful way to enjoy your greens. Broccoli has been a staple in culinary traditions for centuries, valued not only for its nutritional benefits but also for its versatility in the kitchen. Pair it with your favorite protein for a wholesome meal!
Ingredients
- 4 cups, steamed Broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste Black pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Side Dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- Begin by steaming the broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water until they are bright green and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure not to overcook to retain their vibrant color and crunch.
- While the broccoli is steaming, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter has melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Place the steamed broccoli florets in a serving dish and generously pour the cheese sauce over them. Gently toss to coat the broccoli evenly with the sauce.
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or a pinch of nutmeg into the cheese sauce.
- You can also substitute half of the cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different cheese profile.
- To make it a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or baked fish.