Description
Satisfy your craving for comfort food with this creamy, cheesy Broccoli Mac and Cheese. Perfect for a quick dinner, cozy lunch, or healthy snack option. It’s family-friendly, packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli, and layered with rich cheddar and mozzarella cheese. One of the best easy recipes for dinner ideas or quick weekday meals.
Ingredients
225g elbow macaroni
200g broccoli florets
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
3. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
5. Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Mix until evenly coated.
6. Serve immediately or pour into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
For extra flavor, stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce.
To make it ahead, prepare the pasta and cheese mixture and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop or Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: quick dinner, healthy snack, comfort food, broccoli recipe, cheesy pasta, easy recipe