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Cheesy Broccoli with Cheddar Cheese Sauce

This Cheesy Broccoli with Cheddar Cheese Sauce is an easy vegetarian side dish made with tender broccoli florets coated in a smooth, creamy homemade cheddar sauce. It is rich, comforting, and ready in just 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large heads broccoli cut into florets, about 7 cups
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/4 cups milk
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the broccoli florets, reduce the heat to medium, and boil for about 8 minutes, or until softened to your liking.
  3. Drain the broccoli well and set aside.
  4. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the minced garlic.
  5. Stir in the flour, salt, and black pepper. Cook and stir for about 1 minute.
  6. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking until the mixture is smooth.
  7. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir for 3 to 4 minutes, or until completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Add the drained broccoli florets to the cheese sauce and stir gently until all of the broccoli is evenly coated.
  9. Cook for another 2 minutes over low to medium heat, stirring gently.
  10. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

Drain the broccoli thoroughly before adding it to the cheese sauce so excess water does not thin the sauce.
For the smoothest cheese sauce, add the cheddar gradually and stir over moderate heat until fully melted.
This vegetarian side dish is especially good for fall and spring meals.