Keto Cheesy Broccoli Melt
VEGETABLES
1/3/20262 min read
This creamy, gooey Cheesy Broccoli Melt is the ultimate keto comfort food side dish (or even a light main!). Tender broccoli florets are baked in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce until bubbly and golden — think broccoli cheddar soup turned into a casserole, but with way more melt factor. It's ultra-low-carb, high-fat, and incredibly satisfying.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Servings: 6 (as a side) Net Carbs per Serving: Approximately 4g (varies slightly with cheese brands)
Ingredients
6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1.5 lbs, cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat, crispy bacon bits for topping
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels (this prevents a watery casserole). Alternatively, steam for 4-5 minutes.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar and the Parmesan until fully melted.
Assemble: Place the blanched broccoli in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, gently tossing to coat all the florets.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. For extra browning, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch closely!).
Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes, then scoop and enjoy while it's hot and melty!
