Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Published: October 8, 2025

by Sarah Connor

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There’s something magical about the combination of creamy cheese and tender broccoli that warms your soul like a hug from your grandmother. Broccoli Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich, gooey goodness of cheese with the fresh crunch of broccoli. comforting chicken and dumplings Picture this: a bubbling pot of cheesy pasta, tantalizing you with its warm, inviting aroma as it simmers away on the stove. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups recipe.

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients
Let’s Make It Together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
What cheese works best for this recipe?
📖 Recipe Card

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It brings back memories of family gatherings, where laughter echoes around the table, and everyone competes for the last spoonful. tortellini soup for cozy nights Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply trying to convince yourself that vegetables can be tasty, Broccoli Mac and Cheese is your go-to solution for deliciousness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe makes dinner preparation a breeze with minimal effort required
The flavor profile balances creamy and cheesy with a hint of freshness from broccoli
Its vibrant green color adds visual appeal to your dinner plate
Perfect for weeknight dinners but versatile enough for potlucks or gatherings

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during a movie night. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and I felt like a culinary rock star!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Elbow Macaroni: About 8 ounces will create a hearty base for this dish; feel free to swap in gluten-free pasta if needed.
Fresh Broccoli: Use about 2 cups chopped; vibrant green florets add both texture and nutrients.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Approximately 2 cups shredded for that melty goodness; sharpness enhances flavor.
Milk: One cup of whole milk makes everything creamier; almond or oat milk can be substitutes.
Butter: Use 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for richness; don’t skimp here—it’s essential!
All-Purpose Flour: About ¼ cup helps thicken your cheese sauce beautifully.
Mustard Powder: Just a teaspoon adds depth to the cheese flavor without overwhelming it.
Salt & Pepper: Season to taste, enhancing all those wonderful flavors we’re creating!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Optional topping for added crunch; toast them lightly in butter before sprinkling on top.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Boil the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Sauté Broccoli: In the same pot, add chopped fresh broccoli florets. Steam them in about an inch of boiling water until bright green and tender-crisp, roughly 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside with the pasta.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour until combined and bubbly; let it cook for about 1 minute without browning.

Add Milk & Cheese: Gradually whisk in 1 cup of whole milk until smooth; continue cooking until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Toss Everything Together: Combine cooked macaroni, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce together in one big bowl. zesty cottage cheese taco bowl Mix thoroughly so every noodle is coated in cheesy bliss!

Bake (Optional): If you prefer a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish after mixing in panko breadcrumbs tossed lightly in melted butter on top. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

And there you have it: a delicious bowl of Broccoli Mac and Cheese! Enjoy every gooey bite while basking in culinary glory! nutritious sweet potato bowl.

You Must Know

Broccoli Mac and Cheese combines creamy cheese with nutritious broccoli, making it a guilt-free comfort food
The vibrant green of the broccoli peeking through the cheesy goodness creates a beautiful dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the macaroni until al dente. While it’s boiling, steam the broccoli to keep its crunch. Mix both with cheese sauce for optimal flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheddar for gouda or add spices like smoked paprika for a twist. You can even sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect Broccoli Mac and Cheese, ensure your pasta is al dente to avoid mushiness
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting results and avoid pre-shredded varieties that contain anti-caking agents
Lastly, don’t skip seasoning; it elevates the entire dish!

Cooking this Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe reminds me of family dinners where everyone would gather around, sharing laughter and stories while devouring this cheesy delight. For more inspiration, check out this Beef and Cheese Chimichangas recipe.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just thaw and drain excess water before adding.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties available at most stores.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with gouda or mozzarella for different flavors.

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