A comforting and kid-approved side dish, this Cheesy Broccoli is made with a rich, velvety homemade cheese sauce. It’s quick, easy, and a perfect way to make veggies irresistible. Ideal for family dinners or holiday spreads, it’s a delicious way to boost your veggie intake.

Cheesy Broccoli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Great way to enjoy more vegetables
Velvety, flavorful cheese sauce
Quick and easy to prepare
Customizable with spices and cheese types
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound broccoli, cut into florets (about 6 cups)
Water
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk (1% preferred)
2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
Pinch ground mustard (optional)
Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

directions

Place broccoli florets in a large saucepan. Add just enough water to cover the bottom (about 1 cup). Bring to a simmer over high heat.
Cover and let simmer for 4–5 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and set aside in a bowl, covering to keep warm.
Carefully dry the saucepan with a towel. Melt the butter over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute until golden.
Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer for about 3 minutes, whisking constantly until slightly thickened.
Reduce heat to low. Gradually add shredded cheddar in small handfuls, whisking until fully melted after each addition. Stir in Parmesan, salt, mustard, and cayenne if using.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve the cheese sauce over broccoli, or gently mix the broccoli into the sauce before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180 kcal per serving

Variations

Use a blend of cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor
Stir in cooked cauliflower or carrots for a mixed veggie dish
Add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick
Use evaporated milk for a creamier texture
Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy finish

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently until warm. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just steam or microwave according to package instructions before adding the cheese sauce.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can mix it with other melty cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and gently reheat before serving.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting grainy?

Use low heat and add cheese gradually, whisking continuously to prevent separation.

What milk should I use?

1% milk is recommended, but you can use whole or 2% for a richer sauce.

Can I make the cheese sauce spicier?

Yes, increase the cayenne pepper or add a bit of hot sauce to the sauce.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash more milk and whisk until desired consistency is reached.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes, you can serve it over rice, pasta, or even baked potatoes for a more filling option.

Is it okay to skip the Parmesan cheese?

Yes, but it adds an extra depth of flavor. You can increase the cheddar slightly if omitting it.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli is a simple yet satisfying way to transform a basic vegetable into a comforting and flavorful side dish. With its smooth homemade cheese sauce and quick prep time, it’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation.

Emma