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Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender broccoli, this Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a feel-good dish that brings childhood nostalgia and weeknight dinner practicality together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, sneaking in extra veggies, or just craving a warm bowl of comfort, this recipe hits the mark every single time.

The sauce is velvety, the broccoli adds freshness and texture, and the pasta holds it all together in a cheesy embrace. It’s the kind of dish you can serve at a potluck, bring to a new mom, or keep in your fridge for quick reheats. Broccoli and cheese were meant to be together, and this recipe proves it in every forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Mac and Cheese

This recipe delivers ultimate comfort without skimping on the veggies. It’s made with a homemade cheese sauce that’s rich but not heavy, and comes together in about 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights when you want something easy but homemade.

Plus, it’s incredibly kid-friendly. The broccoli softens just enough to blend in, while still offering its vibrant green color and nutrients. Even those who claim to dislike vegetables find themselves going in for second helpings.

What Kind of Cheese Works Best in Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice, and for good reason. Its bold flavor pairs wonderfully with the slight bitterness of broccoli. For a more indulgent sauce, you can also mix in some Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a little cream cheese for creaminess. Just make sure you use cheese that melts smoothly for the best texture.

Ingredients for the Broccoli Mac and Cheese

This dish uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, but every one plays an important role in achieving that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.

• Elbow macaroni
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Dijon mustard

The macaroni is essential for that nostalgic texture, while broccoli florets bring a fresh, slightly earthy element that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Butter and flour make the roux for our sauce, which is then transformed into creamy goodness with milk and cheddar. Seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a hint of Dijon mustard elevate the flavor from basic to crave-worthy.

How To Make the Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for about 6 minutes. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets so they cook until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture bubbles and turns golden.

Step 3: Build the Cheese Sauce

Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring to a simmer and stir constantly until the mixture thickens. Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Fold the drained pasta and broccoli into the cheese sauce, mixing until every piece is well coated. Serve hot, with extra cheese sprinkled on top if desired.

Serving and Storing Your Broccoli Mac and Cheese

This dish is best enjoyed hot right after it’s made, when the sauce is at its creamiest. It can feed about 4 people as a main dish, or 6 to 8 as a side. Leftovers store beautifully too. Just place any extras in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. It also microwaves well, just be sure to stir halfway through reheating.

What to Serve With Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Their crunch complements the creaminess of the pasta perfectly.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

The light garlic flavor and juicy shrimp add a touch of elegance.

Caesar Salad

A fresh and crunchy salad balances the richness of the cheese sauce.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

These add a sweet burst of acidity to cut through the creaminess.

Grilled Sausages

Hearty and flavorful, grilled sausages are a comforting pairing.

Apple Walnut Salad

For a sweet and nutty contrast that enhances every bite.

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Their sweetness and crispness are irresistible next to cheesy pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and savory, mushrooms bring an umami element that’s surprisingly good.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Broccoli Mac and Cheese made you happy, you’ll probably want to try a few more from our collection:

• Our Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is bold, creamy, and so satisfying. View it here
• For something cozy and craveable, try the Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup. Take a look
• Go lighter but still full of flavor with the Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir-Fry. Check it out
• Or make it cheesy and indulgent with Creamy Mushroom Ravioli. Read the recipe

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

If you try this Broccoli Mac and Cheese, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you use a different type of cheese? Add extra veggies or protein? Share your twist in the comments!

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and healthy weeknight favorites on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next obsession: Luna Meals on Pinterest

Conclusion

Broccoli Mac and Cheese proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to get something nourishing and balanced. With just the right amount of vegetables and all the melty, gooey satisfaction you could want, this recipe earns a spot in your regular rotation. Whether you’re cooking for kids, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers every time.

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