Broccoli Cacio e Pepe

Broccoli steps in for pasta in this riff on a rustic Italian dish, cacio e pepe (which translates to 'cheese and pepper').

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Calories: 208 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups whole milk
• 3 heads broccoli
• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Quarter broccoli heads lengthwise and add to the boiling water; simmer for 3 minutes. Drain.

Step 3

Melt butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in milk. Bring to a simmer; cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, pepper, and salt.

Step 4

Transfer drained broccoli to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour sauce on top.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven until hot and bubbly, about 15 minutes. Broil until top starts to brown, 2 to 3 minutes.