Craving a comfort food classic that’s both creamy and nutritious? Look no further than our irresistible Mac and Cheese with Broccoli! This delightful dish combines the rich, gooey goodness of cheddar cheese with tender, vibrant broccoli, making it the perfect meal for both kids and adults alike. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty, satisfying dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup 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 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 separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes smooth and starts to foam.
- Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to thicken, 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 pasta and broccoli, then return them to the original pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and broccoli, stirring gently to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente for the best texture. Overcooking can lead to a mushy final dish, so keep an eye on the clock!
- Blanching Broccoli: Adding the broccoli to the pot during the last few minutes of pasta cooking not only saves time but also ensures the broccoli retains its bright green color and crunch.
- Smooth Sauce: To achieve a lump-free cheese sauce, whisk continuously while adding the flour and milk. This will create a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the pasta and broccoli.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for added flavor and creaminess.
- Adjust the Consistency: If your cheese sauce turns out too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk to reach your desired creaminess.
- Garnish for Flair: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your mac and cheese with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional shredded cheese before serving.
- Make it Your Own: Experiment with add-ins like cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 75mg
