simple broccoli and cheese recipe

The Best simple broccoli and cheese recipe

I’ve been making this simple broccoli and cheese recipe for years, and it’s still a staple in my household. I love how easy it is to prepare, and my family loves how delicious it is.

The best part is that it’s incredibly healthy, with broccoli providing a good dose of vitamins and cheese giving us a boost of calcium. I often make this recipe for dinner, but it’s also perfect for special occasions like holidays or potlucks.

My kids always ask for seconds, and my husband appreciates how quickly I can whip up a batch. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese – I like to use a sharp cheddar that adds depth to the dish.

I’ve also found that steaming the broccoli instead of boiling it helps preserve its nutrients and texture. This recipe has become a mainstay in our household because of its simplicity and versatility.

Simple Broccoli and Cheese Bake

4.6 from 1496 votes

A comforting and easy-to-make broccoli and cheese bake that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Fresh broccoli is tossed in a creamy cheese sauce and baked until bubbly and golden.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
3In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4Add the flour to the melted butter and stir to form a roux.
5Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light brown color.
6Gradually add the milk to the roux, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
7Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
8Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
9Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
10Add the broccoli florets to the cheese sauce and toss until the broccoli is evenly coated.
11Transfer the broccoli and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
12Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
13If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra cheesiness.
14Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
15This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to serve.
16Serve hot and enjoy your Simple Broccoli and Cheese Bake.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Saucepan
Mixing spoon
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute other vegetables, like cauliflower or spinach, for a different flavor profile. For a healthier option, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.

This simple broccoli and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious side dish for special events. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can adjust the amount of cheese to suit your taste preferences, or add other ingredients like diced ham or chopped onions to give it an extra boost of flavor.

When storing leftovers, be sure to refrigerate them within two hours of cooking and consume within three days. You can reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli and Cheese Bake

Q: What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using a sharp cheddar cheese. It adds a nice depth of flavor and works well with the steamed broccoli.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

A: While you can use frozen broccoli, it’s not the best option for this recipe. Fresh broccoli will give you a better texture and more vibrant color.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?

A: To reheat leftovers, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

A: Yes, you can add other ingredients to this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Some ideas include diced ham or bacon for added protein, or chopped onions for extra flavor.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use a vegetarian-friendly cheese option. However, if you’re cooking for someone who follows a strict vegetarian diet, be sure to check the ingredients of your cheese choice.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the broccoli and cheese separately before assembling the dish just before serving.

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