Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food—broccoli mac and cheese! There’s just something magical about that creamy, cheesy goodness mixing with tender broccoli and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Whenever I need a little pick-me-up or want to impress friends with something cozy, this dish is my go-to. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, and you’ll feel like a culinary genius! The way the broccoli adds a pop of color and a hint of nutrition makes me feel a little less guilty about indulging in all that cheesy delight. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy, cheesy masterpiece:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed until tender)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for that rich flavor)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese you love)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a little extra kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to making the best broccoli mac and cheese ever!
How to Prepare Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this creamy, cheesy broccoli mac and cheese! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting dish ready in no time.
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling away, add your 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. You want them to have a little bite! Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Don’t forget to give it a little shake to remove excess water—nobody likes soggy mac!
Preparing the Broccoli
While your pasta is cooking, let’s steam the broccoli. In a steamer basket over boiling water, toss in 2 cups of broccoli florets. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes or until they turn bright green and tender. You can check by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be easy but not mushy! Once ready, remove them from the heat and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
Now for the star of the show—our cheese sauce! In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, whisking it together to form a roux. Keep whisking for about a minute to cook out that raw flour taste. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens—this takes about 3–5 minutes. Next, stir in your 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Keep mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and luscious. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Combining Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, steamed broccoli, and that dreamy cheese sauce. Give it a good mix until everything is evenly coated. This is the moment to taste and adjust your salt and pepper, so don’t be shy! You want every bite to be bursting with flavor.
Baking the Dish
Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and if you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for added crunch! Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until it’s all bubbly and golden on top. Then, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—ready in under 40 minutes!
- Perfectly creamy and cheesy, making it a family favorite.
- Packs in nutrition with vibrant broccoli for a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile—customize with different cheeses or add-ins like cooked chicken or bacon.
- Great as leftovers, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
- Kid-friendly and sure to please picky eaters.
- Comforting and satisfying, perfect for any occasion!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your broccoli mac and cheese turns out absolutely perfect! First off, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère or mozzarella can add a delicious twist, while pepper jack gives it a nice kick! If you want to lighten it up a bit, try using whole wheat pasta or adding a splash of cream instead of all milk for a richer sauce.
Also, when it comes to seasoning, taste as you go! A pinch of nutmeg can elevate the cheese flavor beautifully. And if you love a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle it on top before baking. It’ll be irresistible! Trust me, these little tweaks can take your dish to the next level!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick heads-up! The nutritional information for this broccoli mac and cheese can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. While I do my best to provide accurate estimates, it’s important to check the labels of your ingredients for precise counts. Different brands of cheese, milk, and pasta can all impact the nutrition totals. So, if you’re watching your intake, be sure to double-check those labels to get an accurate picture of what you’re enjoying. Happy cooking!
FAQ About Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! One of the best things about broccoli mac and cheese is how versatile it is when it comes to cheese. You can swap out the cheddar for gouda for a smoky flavor, or use Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a blend of cheeses! Just keep in mind that each cheese brings its unique taste, so mix and match to find your perfect combo. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Making a gluten-free version of broccoli mac and cheese is super easy! Simply substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are so many great options available now, like chickpea or brown rice pasta, which hold up well in this dish. Just be sure to check the labels on your flour and any sauces you might use to ensure they’re gluten-free as well. With these simple swaps, you can enjoy this comforting dish without any worries!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You bet! This broccoli mac and cheese is perfect for prepping ahead. Just follow the recipe up until baking, then cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy nights!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious broccoli mac and cheese ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve with it! This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad—think mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. You can also serve it alongside some roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, grilled chicken or baked fish complements the flavors beautifully. And don’t forget some crusty bread or garlic toast to scoop up every last cheesy bite. Trust me, these sides will elevate your meal to a whole new level!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear from you! If you try this broccoli mac and cheese, please leave a comment below and share your experience. Did you add any special twists? Rate the recipe and let me know how it turned out for you. Happy cooking, friends!
For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy mac and cheese recipe or this baked mac and cheese recipe!
Print
Broccoli Mac and Cheese: 7 Creamy Comforts You’ll Crave
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and cheesy broccoli mac and cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Steam the broccoli until tender, about 5 minutes.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
- Stir in cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Combine macaroni, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Notes
- You can add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
- Substitute cheese for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: broccoli mac and cheese, comfort food, vegetarian recipes
