Description
Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a delightful comfort food that combines creamy, sharp cheddar cheese with tender broccoli and al dente elbow macaroni. This dish not only warms your heart but also tantalizes your taste buds with its rich flavors and textures. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, it offers a delicious way to enjoy vegetables while indulging in cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente (about 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 2. Steam broccoli in boiling water until bright green and tender-crisp (about 3-4 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until bubbly. Cook for about 1 minute.
- 4. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth and thickened (about 3-5 minutes). Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- 5. Combine cooked macaroni, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing well.
- 6. (Optional) Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 60mg