Description
Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the healthy twist of vibrant broccoli.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the macaroni until al dente. Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender. Drain both and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Season with garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer until thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, if desired.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- This dish is great for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
- The crispy, golden top adds an irresistible crunch.
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli according to availability.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Broccoli Mac Cheese, Baked Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food