Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and cheesy, with tender pasta shells enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce and lightly vibrant broccoli florets folded throughout. It’s a hearty, wholesome dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort meets nutrition: This classic mac and cheese is elevated with broccoli, making it a cozy indulgence that’s also vegetable-packed and satisfying for all ages.Delish+14Damn Delicious+14Damn Delicious+14 Itaira Eats
Made in under 30 minutes: The stovetop method means minimal cleanup and fast preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting meal that’s quick yet fulfilling.Damn Delicious Simply Recipes
One-pot convenience: Opt for the one-pot approach where everything comes together in a single pan—pasta, cheese, and broccoli—for an easy, no-fuss meal.Bon Appétit The Cozy Cook
Versatile and adaptable: Customize it with different cheeses, add-ins like bacon or mushrooms, or make it gluten-free—this dish welcomes personalization without sacrificing comfort.Southern Discourse+14The Cozy Cook+14The Jam Jar Kitchen+14

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Medium pasta shells—or elbow macaroni, penne, cavatappi
Butter (for creating the roux base)
Garlic and shallot or onion (optional, for extra flavor)
All-purpose flour (for thickening)
Whole milk and/or half-and-half/cream
Dijon mustard (optional, adds depth)
Sharp cheddar cheese (and optional Gruyère or Parmesan)
Fresh or frozen broccoli florets
Salt, freshly ground black pepper, paprika or nutmeg (optional)supperwithmichelle.com+13Damn Delicious+13Damn Delicious+13 Barley & Sage+2Feel Good Foodie+2 The Cozy Cook+5Bon Appétit+5Barley & Sage+5

directions

Cook the pasta until al dente; drain if using a traditional method. If doing a one-pot version, skip straining—allow the pasta water to become the sauce base.Bon Appétit+1
Prepare the sauce: Melt butter in a skillet, sauté garlic and shallot if using, then whisk in flour to form a roux. Add milk/half-and-half gradually, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. Season with mustard, seasonings, salt, and pepper.Damn Delicious The Life Jolie Southern Discourse
Add cheese: Stir in shredded cheese a handful at a time, ensuring each addition melts fully into the sauce.
Combine: Stir in pasta and broccoli; cook until everything is heated through and the broccoli is just tender.⅂citeturn0search0turn0search2turn0news18
Serve immediately, optionally topped with more cheese, breadcrumbs, or crunchy additions like crushed crackers.Bon Appétit

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 main portions—or up to 6 as a side dish
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 30 minutesDelish+14Damn Delicious+14Gimme Some Oven+14 Gimme Some Oven

Variations

One-pot version: Cook pasta directly in broth/water and skip draining—this starchy cooking liquid becomes the sauce’s base.Gimme Delicious+14Bon Appétit+14Bon Appétit+14
Baked topping: Once combined, transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs or cheese; broil until golden for added texture.The Life Jolie
Cheese choices: Mix sharp cheddar with Gruyère, white cheddar, or Parmesan for deeper flavor.Damn Delicious
Broccoli options: Use fresh for best texture, or stir in roasted vegetables for variation.Barley & Sage
Healthier twist: Substitute cauliflower or add protein like chicken or ham to round it out as a one-dish meal.SELF EatingWell

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess; microwave works in a pinch but may dry it out.Bon Appétit Barley & Sage

FAQs

What pasta works best?

Small shapes like shells, elbows, or cavatappi are ideal—they hold sauce and broccoli bite perfectly.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes—just add it in while cooking pasta or in the final minutes of stovetop preparation.

How do I keep it from becoming too thick?

Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water when reheating to thin the sauce back to desired consistency.

Can I make it without a roux?

Yes—opt for the one-pot method that uses pasta water and cheese with cornstarch to mimic the creamy texture without flour.Barley & Sage+1 Bon Appétit

Is there a way to make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce the amount of cheese; add cauliflower for veggie volume.

How do I get the broccoli tender without sogginess?

Cook broccoli just until bright and crisp-tender—overcooking can leave it mushy when reheated.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes—simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure any roux or thickener uses GF flour or cornstarch.

Can vegetarians eat this?

Absolutely—just skip Worcestershire sauce (if used) and ensure cheese options align with dietary preference.

How to make it extra cheesy?

Grate cheese fresh from the block, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that inhibit melting.The Jam Jar Kitchen+13The Cozy Cook+13Business Insider+13

Does it reheat well?

Yes—gently warm on stove with added milk for best results; it may firm up in the fridge but softens as you reheat.

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese marries creamy indulgence with a healthy touch—making it a dish that both comforts and satisfies. With speedy preparation, endless customization options, and the ability to please every age group, it stands as a go-to recipe for weeknights, family dinners, or when you just crave cheesy goodness. A classic elevated with greens—yet never losing its heart.