There’s nothing quite like the charming combination of creamy cheese and tender broccoli to elevate your comfort food game. Introducing Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli – a dish that promises to tickle your taste buds and warm your heart! One fun fact about this dish is that it beautifully combines the classic mac and cheese most families adore with the goodness of broccoli, making it a sneaky way to get those greens into even the pickiest eaters.
Why is this recipe special? Well, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also a fantastic family-friendly dish – who doesn’t love melting cheese over pasta? If you enjoy our Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese, you’re going to fall head over heels for this broccoli-infused variation. So grab your apron, and let’s dive headfirst into this cheesy masterpiece!
What is Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli?
So, what’s in a name, you might ask? Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli – that’s a mouthful! It’s as delightful as it sounds! This dish marries the beloved macaroni pasta with a luscious cheese sauce, topped with the green goodness of broccoli, creating a culinary hug for your taste buds. Have you ever wondered why comfort food is so comforting? Perhaps it’s because, as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and nothing speaks to the heart quite like creamy, cheesy goodness. We invite you to give this recipe a try and discover just how comforting it can be!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
You might be wondering why you should dedicate some of your precious cooking time to this Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli. Well, here are three key reasons:
- Creamy and Cheesy Goodness: Imagine biting into creamy pasta enveloped in rich cheese sauce topped with crispy bits of baked cheese. The flavor combinations are absolutely magical! You’ll find that cheesy mac and cheese lends itself perfectly to savory broccoli, making each bite a delightful experience for your palate.
- Cost-Effective Meal: Making this comfort food at home means you save a few bucks compared to ordering from a restaurant. With reasonably priced ingredients, you can whip up a generous portion without breaking the bank, and your family won’t even miss that pricey takeout!
- Endless Flavor Variations: The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite cheeses, spices, or even throw in other vegetables! If you love our Quick and Easy Mac and Cheese, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to incorporate different flavors and ingredients into this one.
Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and try making this delectable dish at home?
How to Make Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
Quick Overview
This Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is not only simple but incredibly delicious and satisfying. The dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to kick back and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings. With its creamy cheese sauce, al dente pasta, and nutritious broccoli, it’s comfort food done right!
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your baked mac and cheese has the perfect golden topping.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. During the last three minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, cooking for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, and add sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine: Stir in the cooked pasta and broccoli, ensuring they are coated evenly in the cheese sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbling and lightly golden on top.
- Serve: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy goodness with your loved ones!
What to Serve Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli With
Pair this delightful dish with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the cheese. If you’re feeling like a little indulgence, crusty garlic bread can complement the meal beautifully. For a refreshing drink, consider serving it with a glass of iced tea or sparkling lemonade to cleanse your palate!
Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses! A mix of mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist to your dish.
- Broccoli Alternatives: If broccoli isn’t your style, try incorporating other vegetables like spinach or peas. The recipe is super flexible!
- Homemade Bread Crumbs: If you opt for breadcrumbs on top, try to make your own! Just toast some day-old bread in the oven and then pulse it in a food processor for a fresh touch.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven for a few minutes, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Now that you’re armed with all the information about this Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy every cheesy bite, and share your culinary creations with family and friends. Happy cooking!
Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets Add during the last three minutes of pasta cooking.
- 2 tablespoons butter For making the cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour To create a roux for the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups milk Use whole milk for creaminess.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Main cheese for the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For added flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt To taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper To taste.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs Optional, for topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. During the last three minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for about a minute to create a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low, and add sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combining and Baking
- Stir in the cooked pasta and broccoli, ensuring they are coated evenly in the cheese sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbling and lightly golden on top.
- Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.
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