How to Make Cheese Sauce for Broccoli in the Microwave: A Quick and Easy Recipe

If there’s one thing I love about cooking, it’s finding quick and easy recipes that still deliver big flavors. One such recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen is making cheese sauce for broccoli in the microwave. Not only is it incredibly simple to make, but it takes just a few minutes and tastes absolutely delicious. In this article, I will be sharing my go-to recipe for making this creamy and cheesy sauce that pairs perfectly with steamed broccoli.

Table of Contents

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup of cheddar cheese, grated

1/2 cup of milk

2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons of butter

1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups of broccoli florets

Steam the Broccoli

The first step in making cheese sauce for broccoli is to steam the broccoli itself. This can easily be done in the microwave by placing the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave the broccoli on high for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes tender. Once steamed, set the broccoli aside while we prepare the cheese sauce.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Now, let’s get started on the cheese sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until fully melted. Once melted, add the flour to the bowl and whisk the mixture until it forms a smooth paste. This step is crucial as it helps to thicken the sauce.

Next, slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk the mixture. Make sure to whisk until all the flour is fully incorporated and no lumps remain. At this point, it’s time to add the grated cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the cheese into the bowl and whisk until it melts and combines with the milk mixture.

TIP:

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor to your cheese sauce, you can also add garlic powder at this stage. It adds a subtle kick and enhances the overall taste of the sauce.

Once the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth, microwave the bowl on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Make sure to stop and stir the mixture every 30 seconds to prevent any clumping or scorching.

Combine the Sauce and Broccoli

By this point, your cheese sauce should be thick and creamy, ready to be combined with the steamed broccoli. Take your bowl of steamed broccoli and pour the cheese sauce over the top. Gently toss the broccoli to ensure that each floret gets coated with the delicious cheesy goodness.

Season to Taste

To finish off this quick and easy recipe, season the cheese sauce and broccoli with salt and pepper to taste. The amount of seasoning you add will depend on your personal preference, so feel free to add as little or as much as you like. Give the broccoli a final toss to evenly distribute the seasoning, and you’re ready to serve!

Conclusion

Making cheese sauce for broccoli in the microwave is an absolute game-changer. It allows you to enjoy a creamy and indulgent sauce without the hassle of using multiple pots and pans on the stovetop. Plus, it takes just a few minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute side dish. So, the next time you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your broccoli, give this microwave cheese sauce recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!