Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Bake
- Betty’s Kitchen Secrets for Broccoli Perfection
- When to Serve This Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
- Make It Your Own: Easy Recipe Variations
- Easy Recipes That Fit Busy Weeknights
- Tips for Reheating and Storage
Key Takeaways
This Cheesy Broccoli Bake is an easy recipe perfect for busy nights. Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor, it’s a side dish that’s always a hit. It pairs beautifully with all kinds of mains, making it a versatile option for any dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Bake
If you’re like me and always on the lookout for easy recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor, this one’s a winner. I’ve made it for family dinners, potlucks, and even meal prep—and it never disappoints. The cheesy goodness brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite, especially when you need some comfort food magic. At Betty Cooks, we love meals that come together quickly and still feel special.
Betty’s Kitchen Secrets for Broccoli Perfection
Steaming the broccoli slightly before baking is key. It softens just enough without becoming mushy, so you get that perfect bite. This recipe also lets the cheese sauce cling to every floret—just the way we like it here at Betty Cooks. A simple roux gives the sauce depth and makes it one of the quick and easy recipes you’ll want on repeat.
When to Serve This Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
This cheesy broccoli bake fits in seamlessly with all kinds of meals. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, it adds a little comfort to the table. It’s also a hit with picky eaters and perfect for recipes for dinner that the whole family will actually eat.
Make It Your Own: Easy Recipe Variations
Feel free to mix in some cooked quinoa, brown rice, or even rotisserie chicken to make this bake more filling. Swapping in different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack can totally change the flavor vibe. These tweaks make it a part of your go-to dinner recipes rotation—quick, customizable, and endlessly delicious.
Easy Recipes That Fit Busy Weeknights
We all have those nights where we’re too tired to cook but still want something wholesome. That’s where this dish shines. It’s one of those food receipt easy recipes that feels homemade without taking up your whole evening. You’ll find more like this at Betty Cooks—where fast meets flavor.
Tips for Reheating and Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you want a crispy top, reheat uncovered in the oven. This dish also fits right in with sweet easy recipes and air fryer desserts easy recipes for a well-rounded meal plan.
Cheesy Broccoli Bake – Easy Recipes for Dinner
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds broccoli florets (about 8 cups)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup 2% milk
- 3/4 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 1/4 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly coat an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add broccoli and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in milk and broth. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and cayenne.
- Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Place broccoli in the prepared baking dish and pour cheese sauce evenly over the top. Toss to coat.
- Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup cheese over the broccoli.
- Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve hot.
Leave a Comment