Description
This broccoli cheddar creamy beans recipe is the ultimate comfort food—simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Tender broccoli, creamy cannellini beans, and sharp cheddar cheese come together in a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish and ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 3/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (10 to 12-ounce) bag frozen chopped broccoli or broccoli cuts
- 4 ounces (1 packed cup) grated sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the Garlic
- Heat the olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds.
- Add the Beans and Broth
- Stir in the cannellini beans and pour in the vegetable or chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Mash the Beans
- Use a masher or wooden spoon to mash about 1/4 of the beans directly in the pot. This will help create a creamy texture.
- Cook the Broccoli
- Add the frozen broccoli to the pot, stir to combine, and cover with a lid.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 6 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Melt the Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add the remaining cheese and stir until creamy and fully incorporated.
- Season and Serve
- Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
Notes
- Broccoli Options: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it before adding to the dish.
- Texture Control: Adjust the amount of broth based on how creamy or soup-like you prefer the dish.
- Cheese Substitutes: Swap sharp cheddar with Gruyère, Parmesan, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based cheese and vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American