Have you ever craved the comfort of mac and cheese but wished it packed a bit more nutritional punch? Let me introduce you to Broccoli Mac and Cheese, a delightful twist on the classic dish that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness you love with the wholesome benefits of broccoli. Imagine the rich, velvety cheese sauce clinging to tender pasta, interspersed with vibrant green broccoli florets—a meal that’s as satisfying as nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this delectable dish from scratch!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Nutritious: Packed with the goodness of broccoli.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different cheeses or add-ins.
- Comforting: Rich, creamy, and satisfying.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup required.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Elbow Macaroni: You can substitute it with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works well. If using frozen, thaw and drain before adding.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar has the best flavor, but you can also mix it with mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
- Whole Milk: For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute.
How to Make Broccoli Mac and Cheese (Step-by-Step)
- Prep the Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and measure out the pasta and cheese.
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Boil the pasta in salted water, adding the broccoli in the last few minutes of cooking. This saves time and reduces dishes.
- Make the Roux: Melt the butter in the same pot and whisk in the flour to create a roux. This is the base for the creamy sauce.
- Whisk in the Milk: Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Melt the Cheese: Stir in the cheese until thoroughly melted. Season with spices and adjust to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli in the cheese sauce, mix well, and serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese can contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Blend the Sauce: For an ultra-smooth sauce, blend it with an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
- Extra Veggies: Mix sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for a more filling meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storing Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a comfort food experience.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts for a hearty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the pasta to the cheese sauce. Store it separately and combine just before serving.
Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and milk, and add more vegetables like spinach or kale.
Q: Can I freeze Broccoli Mac and Cheese?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Related Recipes
- Classic Mac and Cheese: A traditional take on the beloved dish.
- Cheesy Broccoli Soup: Another comfort food favorite featuring broccoli.
- Baked Ziti with Spinach: A hearty, cheesy pasta bake.
- Vegetarian Alfredo Pasta: A creamy, veggie-packed alternative.
Conclusion
Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the indulgent flavors of classic mac and cheese with the nutritious benefits of broccoli. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for any meal. Give this recipe a try; it just might become a staple in your household!
Creamy Pesto Gnocchi Recipe: A Comforting Italian Delight
Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼¼ tsp black pepper
- tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbling. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli back into the pot, stirring gently to coat everything evenly with the cheese sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try adding a dash of nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.