Cheesy Broccoli

The broccoli is blanched to retain its bright green color and then coated in a creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar and fontina and seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic powder. Baked to a gooey perfection, it's sure to be a flavor explosion. Serve it alongside your favorite protein and enjoy a meal that's guaranteed to impress.

Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 2 large heads of broccoli, chopped into small florets
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more
• ½ cup shredded fontina cheese, plus more
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  
  

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9 x 13-inch (23 x 33cm) baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

2. To a large pot of boiling water, add the broccoli florets and cook them for 3 minutes or until they turn bright green. Drain and transfer the florets immediately to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain the florets again and set aside.

3. To a large saucepan over medium heat, add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the flour, and whisk continuously for 2 minutes or until the mixture turns light brown.

4. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to break up any lumps, and cook the mixture for 5 minutes or until it thickens.

5. Add the cheddar and fontina and stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Season the mixture with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.

7. Add the blanched broccoli to the prepared baking sheet. Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and top with more shredded cheese.

8. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly and the broccoli is tender.

9. Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.