Description

This Broccoli Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, folded around tender elbow pasta and lightly crisp broccoli. This easy dinner recipe is a quick weeknight savior, family-friendly, and a clever way to sneak vegetables into a beloved classic. Whether you’re searching for quick breakfast leftovers, easy dinner ideas, or a healthy snack that satisfies, this cheesy broccoli mac delivers every time.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups elbow macaroni

2 cups broccoli florets

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes, stir in the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until it’s lightly golden.

3. Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

4. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder.

5. Fold in the cooked pasta and broccoli until evenly coated.

6. Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.

Add the broccoli at the end of boiling to retain color and texture.

A quick broil at the end adds a beautiful golden crust on top.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop/Broil
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 410
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: broccoli mac and cheese, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, quick comfort food