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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Steam fresh broccoli florets until tender yet bright green, about 4-5 minutes.
- 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.
- Slowly whisk in milk until the mixture thickens, then stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Fold cooked macaroni and steamed broccoli into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
- 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