A hearty baked pasta dish combining tender macaroni, crisp broccoli florets, and a rich cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection with a crispy top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A family-friendly comfort food that sneaks in vegetables.
Make-ahead and freezer-friendly.
Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or leftovers.

ingredients

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

Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
Broccoli florets, lightly steamed
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese
Milk
Butter
All-purpose flour
Garlic powder, mustard powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper
Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

directions

Cook pasta until just al dente and drain.
Steam broccoli until just tender.
In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk.
Simmer until thickened, then stir in cheeses and seasonings.
Combine pasta, broccoli, and sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier dish.
Substitute broccoli with spinach, peas, or cauliflower.
Use a cheese blend such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat in oven or microwave with a splash of milk to retain creaminess.
Freeze before baking if preparing in advance.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and drain well before adding to prevent excess moisture.

What cheese melts best?

Cheddar is classic, but you can mix with mozzarella or Gruyère for more complexity.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Cook over medium heat and stir constantly—do not boil once cheese is added.

Can I add protein to this?

Yes—shredded chicken, cooked sausage, or ham work well.

Should I cover it while baking?

Bake uncovered for a golden top. Cover if it browns too quickly.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes—assemble, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

How can I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes—penne, shells, or fusilli all work well.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes. Assemble and freeze unbaked for best results. Thaw before baking.

Conclusion

This creamy broccoli mac and cheese bake is a reliable and satisfying dish for all ages. Balanced between indulgent and nourishing, it’s a smart choice for make-ahead dinners or crowd-pleasing casseroles.