Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese recipe that combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar with tender broccoli florets. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side for family gatherings. Packed with cheesy goodness and nutritious veggies, it’s a dish everyone will love!
This Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese recipe offers a blend of rich flavors and comforting textures that everyone will adore. It's an ideal choice for a family gathering or a delightful weeknight dinner.
A Comforting Classic with a Twist
Mac and cheese is one of those beloved comfort foods that evokes a sense of nostalgia for many. Its creamy, cheesy goodness has the power to make any meal feel special. This Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese introduces a nutritious twist by incorporating tender broccoli florets the classic dish. Not only does this addition enhance the flavor, but it also boosts the nutritional profile, making it a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy.
The allure of this recipe lies in its balance of textures and flavors. The sharpness of the cheddar cheese perfectly complements the freshness of the broccoli, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. Plus, with only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time, which makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Easy to Make and Versatile
One of the fantastic aspects of this Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese is its versatility. You can customize it according to your family's tastes or dietary preferences by adding other veggies such as spinach or bell peppers. If you're looking for a heartier version, consider adding cooked chicken or even some crispy bacon to elevate the dish further. This adaptability makes it a perfect canvas for creativity.
Moreover, the recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Even those new to the kitchen will find success in creating this delicious meal. The steps are easy to follow, and the satisfaction of making a comforting, cheesy dish from scratch is truly rewarding.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese is perfect for a weeknight dinner, but it's also an excellent side dish for family gatherings or potlucks. Its crowd-pleasing nature means it can complement various main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian options. Everyone will love digging into a warm, cheesy serving, making it almost impossible to resist seconds!
Serving this dish will undoubtedly impress your guests, especially with the knowledge that you've added a healthy portion of vegetables to the mix. This mac and cheese can also be made ahead of time; simply bake it shortly before serving for a warm, comforting dish that tastes just as good as when it was first prepared.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to prep the ingredients before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Cook over low heat until everything is heated through. Serve hot!
Enjoy your creamy Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese!
Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli is often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. Rich in vitamins C and K, this green vegetable also provides an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety. When included in your mac and cheese, it elevates a comfort food into something nutritious, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.
Additionally, broccoli contains important antioxidants that help combat inflammation and protect your body against various diseases. By incorporating it into this cheesy dish, you're not just serving a delicious meal, but also one that contributes to your overall health.
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese
To achieve the ultimate creaminess in your mac and cheese, make sure to use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties. Pre-packaged cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's smooth consistency. A sharp cheddar will give you the bold flavor you're after, but feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties to customize your dish.
Also, be careful not to overcook your pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking slightly once mixed with the cheese sauce. This way, each bite of mac and cheese remains perfectly tender without becoming mushy.
Storing and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, storing your Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the texture, but you can also use the microwave for quick convenience.
When reheating, consider adding a splash of milk or a small amount of butter for added creaminess, as the dish may dry out slightly after being stored. This will help restore that delectable, creamy texture you love, ensuring that each bite is just as delightful as when it was first made.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the pasta.
→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour in the cheese sauce.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese recipe that combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar with tender broccoli florets. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side for family gatherings. Packed with cheesy goodness and nutritious veggies, it’s a dish everyone will love!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Cook over low heat until everything is heated through. Serve hot!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 25g