Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that combines tender macaroni and fresh broccoli florets in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (preferably whole)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package directions. Add broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli back into the pot and stir to combine with the cheese sauce.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- For a baked version, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil until golden.
- Swap cheddar for other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Find it online: https://tastyera.com/creamy-broccoli-mac-and-cheese/