Broccoli with Cheese Sauce – Easy, Creamy Vegetable Side Dish

There’s something timeless about the combination of tender broccoli and warm, melty cheddar.

This Broccoli with Cheese Sauce is the perfect way to dress up a simple vegetable and make it the star of the plate.

Whether you’re trying to get picky eaters to eat their greens or need a reliable vegetable side dish for dinner, this classic always delivers with its smooth, cheesy finish and pop of green freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Family-friendly favorite – Loved by both kids and adults

Quick and simple – Done in under 20 minutes with pantry staples

Healthier than it looks – Steamed broccoli with a lighter cheese sauce

Customizable heat – Add cayenne or mustard for a little kick

Perfect side for any meal – Great with chicken, steak, or baked potatoes

Creamy without heavy cream – Uses 1% milk and still feels indulgent

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Broccoli florets – Fresh or pre-cut, this nutrient-packed veggie is the star

Milk – 1% or whatever you have on hand; helps keep the sauce light

Butter and flour – Create a simple roux that thickens the cheese sauce

Cheddar cheese – Sharp, shredded cheddar melts beautifully

Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, salty depth

Ground mustard & cayenne (optional) – Bring subtle spice and complexity

Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor throughout

 Pro Tips Before You Start

Don’t over-steam the broccoli – You want it tender but still vibrant and crisp

Wipe the pan dry before making sauce – Water can break the roux

Whisk constantly – Especially when adding milk, to avoid lumps

Melt cheese slowly – Adding it gradually prevents clumping and makes a silky sauce

Taste before serving – A pinch of extra salt or a dash of spice can balance everything

How to Make Broccoli with Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Steam the Broccoli

Add 1 lb broccoli florets to a large saucepan.

Pour in just enough water to cover the bottom in a thin layer—about 1 cup.

Bring to a simmer over high heat, cover, and cook for 4–5 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.

Drain well and set aside in a covered bowl to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Carefully dry the pan with a towel.

Over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter, then sprinkle in 2 tablespoons flour.

Whisk constantly for about 1 minute until the flour turns golden and smells slightly nutty.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Slowly pour in 1 cup milk while whisking to prevent lumps.

Simmer for about 3 minutes, whisking nonstop, until the mixture thickens slightly into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low.

Gradually whisk in ⅔ cup shredded cheddar cheese, adding a small handful at a time to allow it to melt fully.

Stir in 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and a pinch of mustard or cayenne if using.

Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon the cheese sauce over the warm broccoli, or gently stir the broccoli into the sauce and serve it all together.

Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

What to Serve It With

Grilled chicken or steak – A great side for protein-based dinners

Baked potatoes – Drizzle extra cheese sauce over both!

Pasta night – Serve as a cheesy veggie side with spaghetti or lasagna

Rice bowls – Adds richness and veggies to any grain bowl

Holiday meals – Pairs well with turkey, ham, or roast beef

Variations / Substitutions

Use cauliflower – Or go half-and-half with broccoli and cauliflower

Swap cheeses – Try mozzarella, fontina, or pepper jack for a twist

Make it spicier – Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to the sauce

Dairy-free version – Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese

Add breadcrumbs – Toasted breadcrumbs on top give great crunch

Storage & Reheating Tips

Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Reheat – Gently in a saucepan with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce

Don’t freeze – The cheese sauce can separate when thawed

Make ahead – Prep the sauce and broccoli separately, then combine before serving

Double the sauce – It’s great over other veggies, pasta, or baked potatoes too

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just steam or microwave it until tender, then proceed with the cheese sauce.

What type of cheddar works best?

Sharp cheddar melts smoothly and adds bold flavor.

Mild cheddar is also great for kids.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store sauce and broccoli separately, then reheat and combine just before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer it longer, or add a bit more flour at the roux stage next time.

Can I use whole milk or 2%?

Yes, any milk will work—whole milk gives a richer texture, 1% keeps it lighter.

Is this dish gluten-free?

As written, no (due to the flour).

But you can use gluten-free flour to make it GF-friendly.

What if my cheese sauce turns grainy?

That usually happens when the cheese is added too quickly or the heat is too high.

Keep it low and go slow for a smooth sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli with Cheese Sauce is one of those side dishes that turns into the star of the meal.

It’s comforting, quick, and packed with flavor—without relying on heavy cream or processed ingredients.

Whether you pour the cheese on top or mix everything together, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds).