Creamed Broccoli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love making Creamed Broccoli because it turns a simple vegetable into a rich, comforting, and delicious side dish. The tender broccoli is coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s both smooth and flavorful, making it the perfect way to enjoy more greens. Whether I serve it alongside roasted meats, pasta, or as part of a holiday spread, it always gets eaten up fast. It’s easy to prepare, requires just a handful of ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite cheeses or spices.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

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

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or cheddar)

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A pinch of nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely depth)

• Extra grated cheese or breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

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

Directions

Cook the Broccoli:

1. Steam or Boil: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well.

Make the Cream Sauce:

2. Prepare the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until the mixture bubbles slightly and smells toasty.

3. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes until thickened.

4. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine and Serve:

5. Mix with Broccoli: Add the cooked broccoli to the sauce and stir gently to coat the florets evenly.

6. Optional Topping: For extra texture, transfer the creamed broccoli to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.

7. Serve: Serve warm as a side dish. It pairs beautifully with chicken, beef, or pasta.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4. Prep time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes. Total time: approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

If I want to change it up, I sometimes add sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor. For a spicier version, I stir in a dash of cayenne or a spoonful of Dijon mustard. You can also swap out the cheese—try Gruyère, cheddar, or even cream cheese for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this with frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just thaw it first and drain well to avoid a watery sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and broccoli separately, then combine and reheat before serving. If baking with cheese on top, do that step right before serving.

Can I use cream instead of milk?

Yes, using heavy cream or half-and-half will make the sauce richer and thicker.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can use plant-based butter, unsweetened plant milk, and dairy-free cheese to make a dairy-free version.

Is this gluten-free?

The flour makes a traditional roux, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener instead.

Conclusion

Creamed Broccoli is a cozy, creamy side dish that’s full of flavor and easy to love. With a silky cheese sauce and perfectly cooked broccoli, it’s a simple way to add comfort and nutrition to your plate. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or during a festive meal, it’s always a welcome dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.