Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Chickpea Skillet

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: ~480 per serving (4 servings)

Ingredients

Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas, drained & rinsed

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen)

• 1 cup vegetable broth

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp turmeric (optional for color)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Cheese Sauce

• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 tbsp flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)

• 1 tbsp butter

Optional Add-Ins

• Red pepper flakes

• Cooked rice or quinoa

• Cooked pasta

• Extra cheddar for topping

Instructions

1. Sauté the Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium.

2. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add chickpeas, broccoli, paprika, onion powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper.

5. Pour in broth, cover, and cook 5–7 minutes until broccoli softens.

2. Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce

1. In the same skillet (push veggies to the sides or remove if needed), melt butter.

2. Add flour and whisk to form a paste.

3. Slowly pour in milk, whisking until smooth.

4. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy.

5. Combine everything together in the skillet.

3. Simmer & Melt

1. Let the mixture simmer 2–3 minutes until thick, cheesy, and bubbly.

2. Add extra cheddar on top and cover for 1 minute to melt if desired.