Description
This creamy broccoli mac and cheese is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender elbow macaroni and fresh broccoli florets in a rich, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Perfect as a hearty side or main course, it delivers classic flavors with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain the mixture and set aside.
- Make Roux: Using the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute, creating a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk Slowly: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture for 4-5 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor of the cheese sauce.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat to a simmer and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the creamy broccoli mac and cheese hot for the best experience.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for a more flavorful cheese sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2% milk or a milk alternative.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour for the roux.
- For a crunchy topping, transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes.
