Description
This creamy, cheesy sauce is the perfect topping for fresh steamed broccoli or any vegetable, providing a rich and flavorful addition made with simple pantry ingredients including cheddar cheese, butter, and half and half.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 crown fresh broccoli (cooked)
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat until fully liquefied.
- Make Roux: Keeping the heat on medium-low, add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes bubbly, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, salt, paprika, and pepper to infuse flavor into the roux.
- Add Half and Half: Gradually whisk in the half and half and continue stirring until the sauce just begins to boil or bubble around the edges, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Incorporate Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve: Pour and spread this cheese sauce over the cooked broccoli or your favorite vegetable for a delicious and comforting topping.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheeses may contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; adding a pinch of cayenne can add a nice subtle heat.
- For a thinner sauce, add a splash more half and half or milk as needed.
- This cheese sauce can be prepared ahead and gently reheated, stirring occasionally.
- Perfect as a dip or poured over steamed vegetables, baked potatoes, or pasta.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
