How to Make the Best Cheesy Broccoli in 15 Minutes?

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for any meal? Well, you’re in the right place! Today, I’m sharing my secrets for the creamiest, most mouthwatering cheesy broccoli you’ve ever tasted. And the best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes! Whether you’re planning a quick family dinner, prepping for a holiday feast, or just need a tasty addition to your weeknight dinner ideas, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• A versatile side dish that pairs well with everything from chicken to steak.
• Kid-friendly and approved by even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this divine cheesy broccoli:

• 1 pound broccoli
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• ⅔ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• Pinch ground mustard
• Pinch cayenne (optional)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is so simple, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

1. Place the broccoli in a large saucepan.
2. Cover with enough water to create a thin layer of water across the bottom of the pan (about 1 cup or so should do it; the broccoli itself will not be covered).
3. Bring to a simmer over high heat, then cover the pan and let simmer until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender, 4 to 5 minutes.
4. Drain the broccoli, then place in a bowl and cover to keep warm.
5. With a towel, carefully wipe the pan dry.
6. Add the butter and melt over medium-low.
7. Once it melts, sprinkle the flour over the top.
8. Whisk constantly until the flour turns golden, about 1 full minute.
9. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
10. Let simmer, whisking the entire time, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
11. Reduce the heat to low.
12. Working a small handful at a time, whisk in the cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt fully between additions (if you add too much at once, the sauce will clump).
13. Stir in the Parmesan, salt, and mustard and cayenne (if using).
14. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired (I add a pinch of extra salt).
15. Serve the broccoli warm, with the cheese sauce over the top.
16. Or, stir the broccoli gently into the sauce and serve it mixed.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to make this recipe truly shine:

• Fresh vs. Frozen: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli. Frozen broccoli tends to be softer and may not hold up as well in the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook: Broccoli should be crisp-tender, not mushy. Keep an eye on it while it’s simmering!
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese would be delicious additions.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.

How to Serve

This cheesy broccoli is a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with just about anything. Try serving it alongside garlic butter steak bites for a hearty dinner, or as a quick side for your favorite easy pasta recipes. It’s also a great addition to your weeknight dinner ideas!

Make Ahead and Storage

While this recipe is best made fresh, you can prepare the broccoli and cheese sauce separately and combine them just before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

And there you have it—creamy, cheesy, absolutely divine broccoli that’s ready in just 15 minutes! Perfect for quick family dinners, easy pasta recipes, or any meal that needs a little extra love. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. Happy cooking, everyone!