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Easy Cheesy Broccoli Recipe with Creamy Cheddar Sauce

Easy Cheesy Broccoli Recipe

Steamed broccoli is coated in a simple sharp cheddar cheese sauce and baked with an optional golden breadcrumb topping. This creamy vegetable side serves 4–6 people and is ready in approximately 30–35 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Broccoli and Sauce
  • 1 1/2 lb (680 g) Fresh broccoli florets or frozen broccoli
  • 2 tbsp (28 g) Unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp (16 g) All-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240 ml) Whole milk
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp, optional Garlic powder
Cheese and Topping
  • 1 cup (113 g) Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup (25 g), optional Grated Parmesan
  • 1/3 cup (35 g), optional Panko or plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp, for breadcrumbs Melted butter or olive oil

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if using the baked version. Lightly grease a baking dish so the broccoli and sauce are easy to serve later.
  2. Steam or blanch fresh broccoli for about 4–6 minutes, until bright green and just tender. Thaw frozen broccoli completely, then drain it thoroughly before continuing.
  3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a smooth, lightly cooked roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, adding it slowly so the sauce stays smooth. Cook and stir frequently for 3–5 minutes, until the mixture thickens enough to coat a spoon.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar, Parmesan if using, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Continue stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
  6. Combine the well-drained broccoli and cheese sauce in the prepared baking dish. If using a topping, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter or olive oil and scatter them evenly over the surface.
  7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until hot and bubbling with a lightly golden top. For a stovetop version, warm the sauced broccoli for 2–3 minutes and serve without baking.

Notes

Drain broccoli very well because excess water can thin the sauce. Add cheese off the heat and use freshly shredded cheddar for the smoothest texture. Do not overcook the broccoli before baking because it continues cooking in the oven.