Description
This Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy cheddar sauce, tender pasta, and crisp broccoli for the ultimate comfort meal. A healthy mac and cheese twist that’s perfect for weeknights, family meals, or meal prep.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
3 cups broccoli florets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 ½ cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 6 minutes. In the last 2–3 minutes, add broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes until golden.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Reduce heat.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until melted and smooth.
5. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
6. Serve hot with extra cheese on top if desired.
Notes
Perfectly tender broccoli makes the dish feel balanced, not just indulgent.
For best texture, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded.
Leftovers reheat best with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg