Baked Broccoli with Cheese

yWhy You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love making Baked Broccoli with Cheese because it’s a simple, healthy side dish that’s packed with flavor! The tender broccoli is smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. The cheese adds richness and depth, while the broccoli retains its vibrant flavor and crunch, creating a perfect balance. It’s an easy way to make vegetables exciting, and it’s great for pairing with just about anything—whether you’re having it alongside chicken, pasta, or as part of a veggie spread. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, and you can make it ahead of time for a hassle-free meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads of broccoli)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer sauce)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping (optional):

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Roast the Broccoli:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss the broccoli to coat evenly.

3. Roast the Broccoli: Roast the broccoli in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned around the edges. You can toss it halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

4. Prepare the Roux: While the broccoli is roasting, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour and create a roux.

5. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring the mixture stays smooth and free of lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.

6. Add the Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Dish:

7. Combine the Broccoli and Cheese Sauce: After the broccoli has roasted, remove it from the oven and pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top of the broccoli.

8. Add Toppings (Optional): If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the cheese-covered broccoli. This will give it a nice golden crunch when baked.

9. Bake: Return the broccoli to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you used breadcrumbs, bake until the top is crispy.

Serve:

10. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cheesy broccoli is perfect as a side dish for dinner or as part of a buffet-style meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish. Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a total cook time of 30-35 minutes, including roasting and baking.

Variations

If I want to change things up, I sometimes add a bit of cooked bacon or sausage crumbles to the cheese sauce for an extra savory kick. You can also use different cheeses, like Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites, for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, try using low-fat cheese and milk. If you like a spicy version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Baked Broccoli with Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crispy topping may not stay as crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before roasting to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broccoli and cheese sauce ahead of time. Assemble everything, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 1 day. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for 20-30 minutes to heat through and get the cheese bubbly.

Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?

Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, Parmesan, Gruyère, or even a sharp cheese like Gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. I like to mix two or more cheeses for extra richness and depth.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk (like almond milk or oat milk) to make a dairy-free version. The sauce may not be as creamy, but it will still be flavorful!

How do I keep the broccoli from getting soggy?

Make sure to roast the broccoli until it’s lightly crispy and not too soft. The high heat of the oven helps to reduce moisture while enhancing the flavor. If you plan to make it ahead of time, be sure to store the broccoli and cheese sauce separately until ready to bake.

Conclusion

Baked Broccoli with Cheese is a comforting and delicious side dish that’s simple to make yet rich in flavor. The creamy, cheesy sauce and tender roasted broccoli are a match made in heaven, and the crispy topping adds just the right amount of texture. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your veggie routine or serve something special for a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!

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