How do you make broccoli cheese sauce?

Broccoli Cheese Sauce: Two Delicious Ways

Here are two delicious ways to make broccoli cheese sauce:

1. Classic Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Ingredients:

* 1 tablespoon butter

* 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

* 1 cup milk

* 1/2 teaspoon salt

* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)

* 1 cup chopped cooked broccoli florets

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

3. Add milk: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.

4. Simmer and thicken: Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Season: Stir in the salt and pepper.

6. Add cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.

7. Stir in broccoli: Gently stir in the cooked broccoli florets.

8. Serve: Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or vegetables.

2. Creamy Broccoli Cheese Sauce with a Twist

Ingredients:

* 1 tablespoon olive oil

* 1/2 cup chopped onion

* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

* 2 cups chicken broth

* 1/2 cup milk

* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

* 1 cup chopped cooked broccoli florets

* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Whisk in flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

3. Add broth and simmer: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add cheese and broccoli: Stir in the shredded cheese and cooked broccoli florets until melted and combined.

5. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips:

* Cook broccoli florets until just tender-crisp: This will ensure they maintain their texture in the sauce.

* Use high-quality cheese for best flavor: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.

* Adjust seasonings to taste: Don't be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to your liking.

* Use leftover broccoli cheese sauce: This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Enjoy!