Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese combines the rich, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese with the healthy crunch of steamed broccoli. The creamy sauce is made from a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, with a touch of garlic, butter, and seasonings for extra flavor. It’s a comforting, indulgent dish that sneaks in some veggies and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/4 tsp mustard powder or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2. Steam or Blanch the Broccoli
Steam or blanch the broccoli until just tender (about 3-4 minutes).
Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure no lumps form. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Combine Pasta and Broccoli
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli into the cheese sauce, tossing gently to combine.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If desired, add mustard powder or hot sauce for extra flavor.
5. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the creamy mac and cheese to serving bowls.
Top with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately, garnished with extra broccoli if desired.
Chef Tips & Notes:
Cheese Variations: Use a mix of sharp cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor.
Make it Crispy: For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the mac and cheese up to 2 days in advance. Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Broccoli Tips: If you don’t want your broccoli too soft, steam it just until bright green and tender-crisp, or you can also saute it with garlic and a little olive oil for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk to restore the creaminess.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes! You can use dairy-free cheese and milk (like almond or oat milk) for a dairy-free version. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
Q: Can I add protein to this dish?
A: Yes! Grilled chicken, bacon, or even ground turkey would make great additions to this mac and cheese.
Nutritional Info
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 6g
Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 650mg