Irresistible Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Imagine a steaming bowl of creamy broccoli mac and cheese, rich and cheesy, with tender pasta nestled in luscious sauce. Baked Cheesy Cauliflower Pizzas The tantalizing aroma wafts through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.

This dish brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone eagerly awaited their first bite. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive potluck, this creamy broccoli mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, promising flavors that dance on your palate. Creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; they couldn’t get enough!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for the classic shape that holds onto the sauce perfectly.

• Fresh Broccoli: Opt for vibrant green florets; they add color and nutrition to your dish.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose high-quality cheddar for that rich flavor that makes mac and cheese unforgettable.

• Milk: Whole milk provides creaminess; you can substitute with plant-based milk if needed.

• Butter: Unsalted butter is best; it allows you to control the seasoning.

• Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the cheese sauce beautifully.

• Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder gives an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those delightful flavors.

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

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Broccoli: While the pasta cooks, steam fresh broccoli florets until tender but still bright green, about 4-5 minutes. You want them crisp-tender for texture.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour slowly while whisking until smooth. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden.

Add Milk and Cheese: Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in sharp cheddar until melted and creamy.

Combine Everything Together: Fold cooked macaroni and steamed broccoli into the cheese sauce gently. Ensure every piece is coated with that luxurious sauce!

Bake Until Golden Brown (Optional): For an irresistible crispy topping, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with more cheese or breadcrumbs, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly. Cherry Tomato Pasta with Crispy Chickpeas.

Enjoy every creamy bite of your homemade broccoli mac and cheese!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta first. While it’s cooking, sauté the broccoli and prepare the cheese sauce simultaneously for a smooth finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheddar for gouda or add spicy jalapeños for a kick. Customize it to suit your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk for smoothness.

One Thanksgiving, I made this creamy broccoli mac and cheese, and it stole the show from turkey! Everyone kept asking for seconds, which made my heart swell with joy. Cream Cheese Fruit Dip.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat pasta in creamy broccoli mac and cheese?

For more inspiration, check out this BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe.

Yes, whole wheat pasta works great and adds extra fiber!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free macaroni or rice noodles for an excellent alternative.

Can I freeze leftover creamy broccoli mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container before freezing for up to three months.

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Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Anastasia Chen
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy broccoli mac and cheese is a comforting dish that combines tender elbow macaroni with vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners and festive gatherings alike, delivering a delightful blend of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Steam fresh broccoli florets until tender yet bright green, about 4-5 minutes.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Gradually add flour while whisking to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
4. Slowly whisk in milk until the mixture thickens, then stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Fold cooked macaroni and steamed broccoli into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
6. For a crispy topping, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 50mg