Broccoli Cheddar Chickpea Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Cheddar Chickpea Skillet is a comforting and hearty vegetarian dish that combines tender broccoli, creamy cheddar sauce, and protein-packed chickpeas. It’s quick to make and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 10 oz. broccoli, cut into 1″ florets
• 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
• 1 Tbsp. plus 1/2 cup water, divided
• 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
• 10 Ritz crackers
• 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 (14.5-oz.) cans chickpeas, drained, rinsed
• 1/8 tsp. baking soda
• 4 oz. cheddar, shredded (about 1 cup)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium heatproof bowl, season broccoli with 1/4 tsp. salt. Pour 1 Tbsp. water over broccoli, then cover and microwave 1 minute. Stir and continue to microwave in 30-second increments until broccoli is bright green and fork-tender, 30 seconds to 1 minute more. Uncover and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 Tbsp. butter. Crush crackers into skillet (a mix of larger and smaller crumbs is fine) and cook, stirring constantly, until golden brown and toasty smelling, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl. Wipe out skillet.
3. Step 3: In same skillet over medium heat, melt remaining 4 Tbsp. butter. Add onion; season with 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is tender and sweet to the taste, 7 to 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute more. Add flour and cook, stirring with a spatula, until a bubbling paste forms on bottom of skillet, about 1 minute more.
4. Step 4: Switch to a whisk and slowly whisk in milk and remaining 1/2 cup water until incorporated. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, 1 to 2 minutes. Add chickpeas and baking soda; cook, stirring, until heated through, about 1 minute. Fold in broccoli.
5. Step 5: Reduce heat to low and fold in cheddar until melted and smooth; taste and season with remaining 1/2 tsp. salt, if needed.
6. Step 6: Top with buttery crackers and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor.
• Swap Ritz crackers for panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle smoky heat.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil and use a vegan cheese alternative.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and crackers.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. The crackers are best added fresh to keep their crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

This recipe calls for fresh broccoli cut into florets. Fresh broccoli works perfectly and ensures a tender but not mushy texture after microwaving.

What if I don’t have a microwave for cooking the broccoli?

You can steam the broccoli on the stovetop or blanch it in boiling water until bright green and fork-tender, about 3–4 minutes. Drain well before folding into the skillet.