Description
This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic dish, combining tender elbow macaroni and fresh broccoli florets in a rich, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that brings together creamy texture and nutritious greens in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
Cheese 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 elbow 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 boiling water to cook together. Drain both pasta and broccoli and set aside.
- Make Roux: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the milk mixture to build flavor in the cheese sauce.
- Melt Cheeses: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli back into the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the creamy broccoli mac and cheese hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
- For a thinner cheese sauce, add a splash more milk until desired consistency is reached.
- You can substitute broccoli florets with other vegetables like cauliflower or peas if preferred.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
