There’s no point in me saying it, because we already know, but the best part of any “game day” or watching of a sport just so happens to be the food. I’m trying to convince my husband to join a local softball league just so that I can go watch his games and bring the team snacks, and you’d better believe that they would be some great snacks at the games. If you’re gearing up to watch the upcoming super bowl, or just pretending to watch it so that you can enjoy the appetizers, perhaps you’d like to include this very Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Dip? Did I mention bacon is involved? It would be the best centerpiece to any tailgate, game day party, or family get together. Potlucks? They don’t even stand a chance. You’d knock out the competition. Your potlucks are competitive like mine are, right? Well, if they are, you’d win with this dish. Hands down.

Print Recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Dip

This Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Dip is one of the easiest snacks/appetizers you'll ever make. It's packed with flavor and the broccoli makes it healthy, right?

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Total Time30

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Appetizer, Cheese, Dips, Quick and Easy, Snacks

Servings: 18

Author: Jonathan Melendez

Equipment

Saucepan
Cheese grater

Ingredients

4 slices bacon diced
1 small onion diced
2 garlic cloves minced
1 small jalapeño seeded and diced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk
couple dashes hot sauce optional
1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1 1/2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese shredded
1/2 cup Gruyere cheese shredded
3 tablespoons parmesan cheese
1 pound broccoli crowns trimmed and roughly chopped
crackers for serving
mini peppers for serving

Instructions

Place a large sauce pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bacon and cook, stirring often, until crispy, about 5 to 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and set aside.
Discard all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease and add in the onion, garlic and jalapeño. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add in the butter and cook, until melted through. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for about 30 seconds. Stir in the milk and cook until thickened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, pepper flakes, mustard powder and chili powder (and hot sauce if using).
Remove the sauce from the heat and add in the cheeses, stirring until completely melted through. Return to low heat and stir in the broccoli and cooked bacon. Cook for about 5 minutes to warm through and slightly soften the broccoli.
Serve warm with crackers, chips or vegetables. Enjoy!