Get ready to transform your ordinary mac and cheese into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds! This Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese is not just another pasta dish – it's a creamy, cheesy adventure that sneaks in some nutritious green goodness. Imagine the perfect blend of velvety cheddar sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender broccoli florets that will make both kids and adults swoon with delight. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- During the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot to blanch them. This allows the broccoli to cook simultaneously with the pasta.
- While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes smooth and starts to bubble slightly.
- Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Continue whisking for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, ensuring the mixture is smooth and golden.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Drain the cooked pasta and broccoli, then return them to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and broccoli, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired. The mac and cheese should be creamy, with tender broccoli distributed throughout.
Tips
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the smoothest, most flavorful sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Pasta Cooking Hack: Cook your broccoli with the pasta to save time and reduce dishes. Just add the florets in the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Roux Technique: Take your time when making the roux (butter and flour mixture). Cooking it for 1-2 minutes removes the raw flour taste and creates a better base for your cheese sauce.
- Consistency is Key: If your sauce is too thick, don't panic! Add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out and create the perfect creamy texture.
- Flavor Boosters: Experiment with adding a pinch of garlic powder, mustard powder, or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor of your mac and cheese.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated. Just add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
- Garnish Options: Top with extra shredded cheese, chopped fresh herbs like parsley, or even some crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
