The first time I made Copycat Longhorn Broccoli, I’ll admit I was skeptical. It’s one of those classic Broccoli side dish Longhorn Steakhouse fans rave about, and I wanted to see if the homemade version could truly be as creamy and comforting as the restaurant original. My motivation came from juggling after-school activities and wanting a broccoli recipe with cheese sauce that wasn’t just nutritious but also loved by everyone at the table. Spoiler alert: this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli became an instant family favorite!
What surprised me most about this copycat was how it added a boost of greens without any fuss. Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, and when paired with a cheesy sauce that’s not overly heavy or complicated, it turns into a perfect dinnertime nutrition win. We’re talking about a simple way to sneak in those veggies without any whining or negotiation at the table.
I remember our first taste test vividly—my kids kept going back for seconds, and my husband gave me that appreciative nod that says, “You nailed it.” That’s always a win in my book. Since then, this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli has become my go-to broccoli side dish Longhorn Steakhouse copycat recipes whenever I want a nourishing boost with minimal kitchen chaos.
If you’re a fellow nutrition-seeker searching for a simple broccoli recipe with cheese sauce that your whole family will actually ask for again, my Copycat Longhorn Broccoli recipe might just be your new best friend. It supports family nutrition goals and keeps those greens on the plate without making your evening feel like a battle.
And because I love sharing simple nutrition wins that fit into busy mom life, I’m excited to break down this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli recipe for you. If you like easy dinnertime wins, you’ll also appreciate my take on other favorites like my Copycat Panera’s Potato Soup recipe or the classic Broccoli Cheese Casserole. These recipes help us keep healthy eating straightforward without added stress.
If you want to peek at how other fans make their version, check this Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Recipe or this Longhorn Steakhouse Broccoli – The Food Hussy post for more ideas.
Let’s get started on cooking up your own Copycat Longhorn Broccoli so you have one more nourishing dish ready to go anytime dinner feels overwhelming.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s my simple, straightforward ingredient list for Copycat Longhorn Broccoli that packs nutrition without complexity. Trust me, this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity!
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (bite-sized)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free option)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (adds flavor and immune support)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (choose real cheese for protein and calcium)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (helps create that creamy texture)
- 1/2 cup whole milk or unsweetened almond milk (for a lighter sauce, swap with almond milk)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, kid-friendly versions can skip this)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
No worries if you don’t have cream cheese on hand—I’ve used Greek yogurt instead for extra protein and probiotics in my Copycat Longhorn Broccoli. You can find all these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store, often without breaking the bank.
For budget-friendly swaps, try shredded mozzarella or mild cheddar if sharp cheddar is pricey in your area. For a dairy-free, veggie-loving family, vegetable broth can be added to thin out the sauce while keeping those nutritious broccoli bites flavorful.
Here’s a little ingredient prep shortcut: buy pre-cut broccoli florets or steam your broccoli ahead of time to quickly pull together this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli on busy nights.
Broccoli is high in vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber to keep your family feeling full longer. Adding garlic brings immune-supporting properties, making this broccoli recipe with cheese sauce not only comforting but smart for family wellness too.
My family gets extra nutrition when I add a little twist like tossing in chopped spinach or swapping half the milk for calcium-fortified plant milk.
This list keeps your Copycat Longhorn Broccoli simple, nourishing, and easy to keep coming back to!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Ready to whip up your own Copycat Longhorn Broccoli in your busy kitchen? Let’s walk through it together. This nutritious Copycat Longhorn Broccoli usually takes me about 20 minutes from start to finish — perfect for those nights with snacks to pack and homework to manage.
- Get your broccoli florets steaming first. I like to steam mine over boiling water for about 5 minutes until bright green and just tender. While that’s happening, you can prep the garlic and gather the cheese and milk for the sauce.
- In a medium skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. The smell alone tells you this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli is off to a nourishing start!
- Lower heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly with the butter and garlic. If your cream cheese looks lumpy, keep stirring gently — it will come together as the pan heats.
- Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to form a creamy sauce. This step took me a while to perfect because it’s easy for the sauce to get too runny or thick. If yours looks a bit off, don’t worry — adjusting with more milk or cheese helps you find the perfect balance.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. This cheesy layer is what makes the Copycat Longhorn Broccoli so satisfying and kid-friendly.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. For little ones, skipping the spice works just fine.
- Add the steamed broccoli to the sauce and gently toss to coat those nutritious florets. Your Copycat Longhorn Broccoli should smell nourishing by now, like a warm hug after a busy day!
- Heat it all through for 2-3 minutes, letting everything meld together. While this happens, it’s the perfect time to prep lunches or tidy the kitchen.
- Serve warm and watch everyone dig in!
Here’s where I used to struggle: getting the cheese sauce smooth without it curdling. A slower stir and lowering the heat really made a difference for me. Also, make sure not to overcook the broccoli — mushy veggies don’t do much for anyone, even with cheesy sauce.
This Copycat Longhorn Broccoli is a family-tested favorite with nutrition packed into every bite, making it a kitchen win worth repeating. If you find yourself loving this broccoli recipe with cheese sauce, you might also enjoy my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole for more simple family comfort food.
How We Love to Eat This!
Our whole family devours this nutritious Copycat Longhorn Broccoli when I serve it alongside roasted chicken or baked fish. It’s a broccoli side dish Longhorn Steakhouse lovers rave about because it pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes.
For my kiddos, pairing it with a lean protein and a whole grain on the side rounds out the meal nicely. Think baked chicken tenders and some quinoa or brown rice. We also throw in a colorful salad for extra vitamins.
This Copycat Longhorn Broccoli is perfect for those weeknights when I want a quick, nourishing dinner on the table without fuss. It’s also been a hit when friends come over – they always ask for the recipe!
Presentation-wise, I find serving it in a pretty bowl with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top gets even the pickiest eaters’ attention. For leftovers, reheat gently or toss into a morning frittata for a nutrition boost.
Sometimes I switch up the broccoli for cauliflower or add steamed carrots for some seasonal color and sweetness. This tweaks the nutrition slightly but keeps the family happy and well-fed.
If you’re looking for more family-friendly, nourishing recipes, this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli reminds me of another family-healthy favorite like my Broccoli Cheese Casserole or the comforting Copycat Panera’s Potato Soup recipe. Both recipes bring simple nutrition to your table without added stress.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Is this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli really nutritious enough for growing kids?
A: Absolutely! Broccoli is full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The cheese sauce adds protein and calcium, both important for growing bones. Kids usually love it because it’s creamy and flavorful.
Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Copycat Longhorn Broccoli?
A: I hear you! One trick is to sneak in the broccoli gradually or serve it alongside their favorite dips. Sometimes, serving it warm and cheesy makes veggies easier to accept. Kids often respond well to small tastes before asking for more.
Q: Can I meal prep this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli for busy weeks ahead?
A: Yes! You can make this broccoli side dish Longhorn Steakhouse style in advance, refrigerate, and gently rewarm. Just add a splash of milk or water when reheating to keep the sauce creamy and fresh.
Q: How do I make this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Broccoli dairy-free?
A: Swap butter for olive oil, use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, and choose a plant-based milk like unsweetened almond or oat milk. The dish still turns out creamy and nutritious!
Q: Is this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli recipe with cheese sauce a good option for family meal planning?
A: Definitely. It’s quick, easy, and balances veggies with a cozy, cheesy sauce. I pair it with proteins and grains for complete meals in our family meal rotation.
Q: Can I add other veggies to this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli?
A: Yes! Cauliflower, carrots, or even chopped spinach blend nicely. Mixing veggies makes the dish colorful and nutritious, and my family loves the variety.
Q: Where can I find other Longhorn Steakhouse copycat recipes to try?
A: I recommend checking out The Food Hussy’s Longhorn Steakhouse Broccoli post or the Copycat Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Recipe from Weary Chef for inspiration. They offer great ideas to keep your family nutrition interesting.
This Q&A reflects real mom experiences and keeps your Copycat Longhorn Broccoli simple, nourishing, and adaptable for all families.
Final Thoughts:
Copycat Longhorn Broccoli has become a cornerstone of my family’s nutrition wins. It delivers a nourishing dose of greens with cheesy comfort — all while keeping me sane in the busy after-school hustle.
My Copycat Longhorn Broccoli Nutrition Hacks include:
- Using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for added protein and probiotics
- Adding a splash of calcium-fortified almond milk to lighten the sauce without losing creaminess
- Sneaking in an extra handful of spinach for color and vitamin boost without changing flavor
We’ve tried a few friendly versions too: my husband prefers the classic cheddar-heavy style, the kids love it mild without the red pepper flakes, and I enjoy tossing in extra garlic for immune support.
This recipe is flexible. Make it your own healthy way and watch it become one of your simple nutrition staples. For more nourishing, easy meals, check out my Copycat Panera’s Potato Soup recipe or the Broccoli Cheese Casserole for family favorites.
I hope this Copycat Longhorn Broccoli brings you as many dinnertime nutrition wins as it has brought to my busy family. Give it a try and know you’re adding one more nourishing dish that’s manageable and enjoyable. You’ve got this, fellow nutrition-seeker!
For more recipe inspiration, peek at these simple nutrition gems:
And if you want more Longhorn-style broccoli ideas, check out these trusted versions:
Here’s to simple, nourishing meals with less stress and more family smiles. You’re doing an amazing job!
Copycat Longhorn Broccoli
This Copycat Longhorn Broccoli is a deliciously creamy and cheesy side dish featuring tender broccoli florets smothered in a rich cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam or blanch broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Toss the broccoli with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if using.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For an extra crunch, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top before adding breadcrumbs or try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a subtle kick.