Are you looking for a delicious twist on classic macaroni and cheese? Look no further! This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe is the perfect combination of comfort food and nutritious vegetables. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply when you need a comforting meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and impress everyone at the table.
Why Add Broccoli?
Broccoli and cheese are a match made in heaven. Broccoli adds a burst of freshness, color, and vital nutrients to the traditional mac and cheese. Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli transforms this dish into a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor. The combination ensures that you’re not only satisfying your taste buds but also getting a dose of essential nutrients.
Ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups (uncooked)
- Fresh broccoli: 2 cups (chopped into small florets)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Milk: 2 cups (preferably whole milk for creaminess)
- Cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups (shredded)
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (grated)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Mustard powder: ½ teaspoon (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Breadcrumbs: ½ cup (for topping, optional)
- Cooking spray or extra butter: For greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a medium baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes since it will continue to cook in the oven. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli to blanch. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and keep stirring for about 2 minutes to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Once thick, reduce the heat and add in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine pasta and broccoli with cheese sauce: Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure that every piece is coated with the cheesy goodness.
Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top for a crispy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve and enjoy: Let the Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese sit for a couple of minutes after baking, then serve warm. It’s perfect on its own or with a side salad.
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with calcium, essential for bone health, and fiber, which promotes digestive health. By incorporating broccoli, you increase the nutritional profile, making this a balanced dish that contributes to your overall health.