Homemade General Mills Green Giant Steamers Broccoli & Zesty Cheese Sauce Recipe: A Healthier, Creamier Alternative

Category: Frozen Vegetable Side Dish

Introduction

General Mills' Green Giant Steamers Broccoli & Zesty Cheese Sauce has been a beloved staple in many households for years. Introduced by General Mills under the trusted Green Giant brand, this product combines the convenience of steam-cooked broccoli with a creamy, zesty cheese sauce. Its popularity stems from its ease of preparation and the way it makes eating vegetables more enjoyable, especially for kids. However, many consumers are looking for a homemade version that offers better nutritional value and customization options. This recipe not only replicates the original's flavors but also enhances them with fresher ingredients and reduced sodium, making it a healthier choice for families.

I remember when my kids were younger, getting them to eat broccoli was a daily battle. But once I discovered the Green Giant Steamers, it became a game-changer. They loved the broccoli smothered in that zesty cheese sauce. However, after checking the ingredient list, I wanted to create a version at home that was just as tasty but without the added preservatives. After several attempts and adjustments, I finally nailed a recipe that my kids (and I!) love even more than the original. Plus, it’s more cost-effective and allows me to control the amount of cheese and seasonings.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own version of Green Giant Steamers at home offers several advantages. For one, you can use fresh broccoli, which not only tastes better but also retains more nutrients compared to frozen broccoli. Additionally, by making the cheese sauce from scratch, you can reduce the sodium content and use higher-quality cheeses for a richer flavor. This homemade version is also free from artificial preservatives and additives found in many commercial products. Plus, it's budget-friendly, as buying fresh broccoli and basic pantry ingredients often costs less than purchasing multiple boxes of frozen steamers.

Personal Anecdote

One evening, I was preparing dinner for my family when I realized we were out of our usual Green Giant Steamers. My kids were disappointed, but this turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a homemade version using fresh broccoli and a simple cheese sauce. After some trial and error, the result was a dish that my family not only loved but actually preferred over the store-bought version. It was a moment of triumph in the kitchen, knowing I could provide a healthier, tastier alternative that my kids would enjoy just as much, if not more.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:15 minutes
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings

Ingredients

Broccoli:

• 4 cups (400g) fresh broccoli florets

Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) whole milk
• 1 ½ cups (180g) shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
• ½ cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon (2g) garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon (2g) onion powder
• ½ teaspoon (2g) paprika
• ¼ teaspoon (1g) cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons (30g) fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

• Prepare the Broccoli:

• Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

  • In a steamer basket, place the broccoli. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes until tender but still crisp. Alternatively, you can microwave the broccoli with 2 tablespoons of water for 3-4 minutes until tender.

• Make the Cheese Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

  • Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to make a roux, ensuring there are no lumps.
  • Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  • Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

• Combine Broccoli and Sauce:

• Once the broccoli is cooked, place it in a serving dish.

  • Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli and toss gently until the broccoli is evenly coated.
  • Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Variations

• Low-Fat Version: Replace the whole milk with a non-dairy milk alternative (like almond or oat milk) and use reduced-fat cheese or a mixture of cheese and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.
• Smoky Version: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for a smoky depth of flavor.

Pro Tips

• Freshness Matters: Use the freshest broccoli possible for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it first and pat dry before steaming to remove excess moisture.
• Cheese Quality: For the best flavor, use high-quality cheeses. Sharp cheddar provides a tangy, zesty taste, while mild cheddar offers a creamier, milder flavor.
• Customize the Sauce: Adjust the seasoning in the cheese sauce to your liking. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness or a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for added complexity.

Nutritional Comparison (Per Serving)

FAQ

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

  • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Simply thaw it according to package instructions, pat dry to remove excess moisture, and steam as directed.

• How do I make the cheese sauce lighter?

  • You can reduce the amount of cheese or substitute with lower-fat cheeses. Adding a bit of chicken or vegetable broth can also thin out the sauce while maintaining flavor.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

  • While best served fresh, you can prepare the cheese sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before tossing with steamed broccoli.

• Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

  • Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use vegetarian cheeses (some cheeses, like Parmesan, may contain animal rennet).

• Can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?

  • Absolutely. Simply increase the quantities of broccoli and cheese sauce proportionally. Prepare in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the steamer.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted meats, baked chicken, or pan-seared fish for a balanced meal.
• Add Some Crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a satisfying texture contrast.
• Breakfast Twist: Mix into scrambled eggs or an omelette for a cheesy, veggie-packed breakfast.
• Dip Option: Use the cheese sauce as a dip for veggie sticks, crackers, or chips.

Conclusion

This homemade version of General Mills Green Giant Steamers Broccoli & Zesty Cheese Sauce offers a delicious, healthier alternative to the store-bought product. By using fresh broccoli and a homemade cheese sauce, you can enjoy a tastier and more nutritious meal. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your family's preferences, whether that means adjusting the spice level or using different types of cheese. Plus, it's budget-friendly and can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it a practical choice for busy households. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a homemade dish that's sure to become a family favorite.