Creamy Ranch Cheddar Sauce for Broccoli
Elevate your broccoli dish with this delightful Creamy Ranch Cheddar Sauce! Perfectly balanced with the tang of ranch dressing and the richness of cheddar, this sauce is sure to please both kids and adults. Pair it with steamed broccoli for a nutritious side that brings a refreshing twist to your meals. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this sauce adds a creamy goodness that complements any dish.
4
Servings
105
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Light sour cream
1/3 cup (none)
Margarine (Smart Balance works fine)
1/3 cup (none)
Mild cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup (shredded)
Ranch dressing mix, powdered
1 teaspoon (none)
Seasoning salt
1 dash (none)
Instructions
1
In a small saucepan, combine the light sour cream and margarine. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until the margarine is fully melted and both ingredients are well combined.
2
Increase the heat to medium-low and gradually add the shredded mild cheddar cheese. Stir continuously to help the cheese melt and blend smoothly into the sauce.
3
Once the cheese has fully melted and the mixture is well combined, allow it to simmer gently, letting small bubbles form around the edges of the pan for about 30 seconds.
4
Sprinkle in the ranch dressing mix and a dash of seasoning salt. Stir thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors, and keep the sauce warm until you're ready to serve.
5
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste or add herbs for extra flavor!
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
4g
Carbs
2g
Protein
125mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Ranch Cheddar Sauce?
It is a tangy and rich sauce designed to elevate steamed broccoli dishes by combining ranch dressing flavors with melted cheddar cheese.
Is this sauce suitable for children?
Yes, the creamy goodness and familiar ranch flavor make it a kid-friendly option that encourages eating more vegetables.
What are the five ingredients needed for this recipe?
The ingredients are light sour cream, margarine, shredded mild cheddar cheese, powdered ranch dressing mix, and seasoning salt.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, margarine or a substitute like Smart Balance works fine, but you can use butter if preferred.
What kind of cheese is recommended for the best texture?
Shredded mild cheddar cheese is recommended for a smooth and mild flavor profile.
How do I prevent the sauce from burning?
Cook the sauce over low to medium-low heat and stir occasionally to ensure the ingredients combine without scorching.
When should I add the ranch dressing mix?
The ranch dressing mix and seasoning salt should be stirred in after the cheese has fully melted and the mixture has simmered briefly.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 30 seconds once the cheese is melted and small bubbles appear at the edges.
Can I customize the flavor of this sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the seasoning to your taste or add extra herbs for additional flavor.
Is this sauce easy to prepare?
Yes, it is considered an easy, quick-cooking recipe suitable for weeknight dinners.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
What is the calorie content per serving?
Each serving contains about 105 calories.
How much fat is in each serving of this sauce?
There are 9 grams of fat per serving.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 4 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
Does this sauce provide any protein?
Yes, it provides 2 grams of protein per serving.
What is the sodium level for this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 125mg of sodium.
Can I use this sauce on vegetables other than broccoli?
Absolutely, it works as a versatile cheese sauce for cauliflower, potatoes, or mixed vegetables.
Is this recipe good for social gatherings?
Yes, it is an excellent addition to a gathering with friends as a refreshing twist on a standard side dish.
Should I use light or regular sour cream?
The recipe specifies light sour cream, but regular sour cream can be used for a richer texture.
Can I use sharp cheddar instead of mild?
Yes, sharp cheddar can be substituted if you prefer a more robust cheese flavor.
How do I ensure the cheese blends smoothly?
Gradually add the shredded cheese to the warmed sour cream mixture and stir continuously.
What heat setting is best for melting the cheese?
Use a medium-low heat setting to gradually melt the cheese without breaking the sauce.
Can I add fresh herbs to this recipe?
Yes, adding fresh herbs is a great way to provide extra flavor and freshness to the sauce.
Is seasoning salt a necessary component?
While it adds a dash of flavor, you can adjust or omit it based on your dietary preferences and the saltiness of your ranch mix.
What is the primary purpose of this sauce?
The sauce is intended to provide a creamy, flavorful coating for steamed broccoli to make it more nutritious and appealing.
Does this sauce contain any dietary fiber?
Based on the ingredients, this sauce does not contain any significant dietary fiber.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, there is no sugar listed in the nutritional information for this recipe.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
It is best served warm immediately after preparation, but can be kept warm on the stove for a short period.
What type of ranch mix is required?
The recipe calls for a powdered ranch dressing mix rather than liquid dressing.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as long as the cheese and ranch mix used do not contain animal-derived rennet or gelatin, it is a vegetarian-friendly sauce.