Broccoli with Cheese

Transform simple ingredients into a comforting classic with this Broccoli with Cheese recipe! Perfectly steamed broccoli florets are coated in a rich, homemade cheddar cheese sauce that's smooth, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful. Made with pantry staples like butter, flour, milk, and sharp cheddar, this quick and easy side dish comes together in just 30 minutes. The optional touch of cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick, making this recipe versatile for both kids and adults alike. Whether served alongside a hearty roast or enjoyed as a stand-alone vegetarian favorite, this cheesy broccoli is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Serve it fresh and warm for a delightful combination of crisp-tender veggies and gooey cheese perfection!

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams broccoli florets
• 30 grams butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 250 milliliters milk
• 200 grams cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.125 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Start by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Step 2

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the broccoli florets.

Step 3

Cook the broccoli for 4-5 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook them as they will lose their crunch and nutrients.

Step 4

Drain the broccoli in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 5

In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Step 6

Once the butter is melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a smooth paste with no lumps.

Step 7

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Continue to cook and stir the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens.

Step 8

Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 9

Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, and give it a final stir.

Step 10

Transfer the steamed broccoli into a serving dish and pour the hot cheese sauce over the top.

Step 11

Gently toss the broccoli in the sauce to ensure even coating, then serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1006.6 grams (1006.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1320

Total Fat 94.70g	121%
Saturated Fat 59.80g	299%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.90g
Cholesterol 308mg	103%
Sodium 2869mg	125%
Total Carbohydrate 55.10g	20%
Dietary Fiber 12.60g	45%
Total Sugars 18.70g
Protein 78.10g	156%

Vitamin D 161IU	806%
Calcium 1997mg	154%
Iron 7mg	37%
Potassium 652mg	14%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 61.5%

Protein: 22.6%

Carbs: 15.9%