A velvety cheese blend is layered atop tender broccoli in this deliciously old-fashioned side dish. Fresh Parmesan and black pepper lend an enticing edge to every bite. This version uses skim milk and reduced-fat cheese to keep it light. For more comforting classics made healthier, check out all our healthy vegetable recipes.
This recipe keeps the classic comfort-food feel while cutting back significantly on fat and sodium. By using skim milk and reduced-fat cheese, we create a light, velvety sauce instead of using heavy cream or butter. Steaming the broccoli (instead of boiling) also helps preserve its nutrients.
It can be! Traditional broccoli and cheese is often high in fat and sodium. This version is a healthier choice, as it uses skim milk, reduced-fat cheese, and only 154mg of sodium to create a light but flavorful sauce.
The key is to add flavor without adding sodium or fat. This recipe uses fresh Parmesan and black pepper for a savory kick. Steaming the broccoli until just fork-tender also ensures it isn't mushy.
Steaming (as used in this recipe) is one of the healthiest methods as it retains water-soluble nutrients, like Vitamin C, that can be lost when boiling. Air-frying or roasting with minimal oil are also excellent healthy options.
This specific healthy recipe contains 64 calories per serving, which includes one cup of broccoli and two tablespoons of cheese sauce.
If you’re looking for more veggie recipe ideas, these classic vegetable sides are just as delicious when made with our healthier recipes.
Try any of these comforting and tasty main courses that are easy to prepare and go beautifully with this vegetable side.
Recipe yields 8 servings
Place 1 inch of water in a medium saucepan. Place a metal colander on top of saucepan. Put broccoli in the colander. Place lid on the pot or on top of colander. Bring water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to a simmer and steam for 4 minutes or until broccoli is fork-tender. With tongs, transfer broccoli to a bowl. Set aside.
Place flour in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly with a whisk until smooth. Cook for 2 minutes, or until mixture thickens, stirring constantly. Cook for 1 additional minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
Add cheeses, salt and pepper, stirring with a whisk until smooth. Quickly pour cheese sauce over broccoli and serve immediately.
This recipe is already low-sodium (154mg). To reduce it further, you can use a salt-free seasoning blend instead of the 1/8 tsp salt.
You can swap the reduced-fat cheddar for a reduced-fat Monterey Jack or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
If you don't have skim milk, 1% milk will also work. Avoid using whole milk or heavy cream to keep the recipe heart-healthy.