Mac And Cheese With Broccoli
Creamy, cheesy elbow macaroni studded with tender broccoli florets and baked until golden and bubbly. This comfort food classic gets a wholesome twist with fresh green broccoli that adds color and texture to every bite. Ready in under an hour and guaranteed to please kids and adults alike.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~10 min
Preheat oven and prep ingredients.
1.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).2.Grate cheddar and parmesan cheeses, set aside.3.Cut broccoli into small bite-sized florets.4.Mince garlic cloves. - boil · ~8 min
Cook the macaroni.
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon salt, then add elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente according to package directions, about 7-8 minutes.
TIPUndercook the pasta slightly — it will continue cooking in the oven. - boil · ~2 min
Blanch the broccoli.
During the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets directly to the same pot. Cook for 2 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain pasta and broccoli together in a colander.
- saute · ~6 min
Make the cheese sauce.
1.Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.2.Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.3.Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until bubbly.4.Gradually pour in warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps.5.Continue whisking until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.TIPWarm the milk before adding — cold milk takes longer to thicken and can cause lumps. - mix · ~2 min
Melt cheese into the sauce.
Remove saucepan from heat. Add grated cheddar and parmesan cheeses, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder. Stir until cheese melts completely and sauce is smooth.
- mix · ~1 min
Combine pasta, broccoli, and sauce.
Add the drained macaroni and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Fold gently until everything is evenly coated.
- assemble · ~2 min
Assemble the baking dish.
1.Transfer the macaroni mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.2.Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.3.Dust lightly with paprika for color. - bake · ~20 min
Bake until golden and bubbly.
Place baking dish in preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
TIPFor an extra-crispy top, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes — watch closely so it doesn't burn. - rest · ~5 min
Rest before serving.
Remove from oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before scooping into bowls. This helps the sauce set slightly.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Undercook the pasta by 1-2 minutes so it stays firm after baking.
- 2Blanch broccoli in the pasta water to save a pot and infuse it with salt.
- 3Warm the milk before adding to the roux for a lump-free, silky sauce.
- 4Grate cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- 5Let the baked dish rest 5 minutes before serving so the sauce sets and doesn't run.
- 6For a crunchier topping, broil the last 2 minutes and watch closely to avoid burning.
Adapt it for your goals.
High-protein
Add 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken or crumbled cooked sausage to the mix before baking for extra protein and heartiness.
gluten freeGluten-free
Use gluten-free elbow pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or cornstarch to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
veganVegan
Replace butter with vegan butter, use unsweetened plant milk (like oat or almond), and swap cheeses with vegan shredded cheddar and parmesan alternatives for a dairy-free version.
spicySpicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the butter when sautéing garlic for a gentle heat that complements the creamy cheese.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Calcium
The cheddar and parmesan cheeses provide a good source of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.
Vitamin C from Broccoli
Broccoli adds vitamin C and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion, while keeping the dish lighter than plain mac and cheese.
Protein Boost
The combination of pasta, milk, and cheese offers a moderate amount of protein, making it a more satisfying meal.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Add it to the pasta water in the last minute of cooking, or thaw and pat dry before mixing to avoid excess water in the sauce.
