If you are craving a comforting, cheesy dish that manages to sneak in some greens, you are going to love this Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe. It combines tender elbow macaroni with vibrant broccoli florets all enveloped in a luscious, three-cheese sauce that is bursting with flavor. Every bite offers that perfect balance of creamy richness, slight tanginess from the Dijon mustard, and the satisfying crunch of fresh broccoli. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward, classic ingredients is key to creating this dish’s delicious layers of flavor and appealing textures. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the sauce’s signature creaminess, giving the macaroni that perfect tender bite, and brightening the dish with fresh broccoli.
- Elbow macaroni (8 ounces): The perfect pasta shape that holds onto the rich cheese sauce beautifully.
- Broccoli florets (4 cups): Adds a fresh, green crunch while bringing a pop of color and nutrition.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Essential for creating a silky roux base for the cheese sauce.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
- Milk (2 cups): Provides the velvety texture needed to meld all flavors together.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, savory note without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the depth of flavor just like a subtle background singer.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Gives a slight tang that brightens the rich cheese blend.
- Salt and pepper: To season perfectly and bring all the flavors into harmony.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups shredded): The star cheese providing bold, classic mac and cheese flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts into a stretchy, creamy texture adding a delightful softness.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup grated): Adds a nutty, salty finish that elevates the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until it’s just shy of al dente, according to package instructions. About two to three minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to gently blanch them. This method ensures the broccoli stays vibrant and crisp-tender without overcooking. Drain everything well and set aside to be mixed into the sauce shortly.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In the same pot you used for boiling pasta, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about one minute. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the base for your luscious cheese sauce, known as a roux. It’s a crucial step that results in a thick, velvety texture later on.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking steadily—this prevents lumps and ensures a smooth sauce. Keep cooking and stirring for four to five minutes, until the sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon. This is when the magic of your Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe really begins to shine, as the sauce builds its silky body.
Step 4: Flavor the Sauce
Add garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard to your sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste. These seasonings add layers of gentle heat, tang, and savoriness that complement the cheeses beautifully. Stir well to combine all these wonderful flavors evenly throughout your sauce.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Turn the heat down to low and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, mixing continuously until the sauce is smooth and all the cheese has melted into a gooey, irresistible blanket. This trio of cheeses perfectly balances sharpness, stretchiness, and nutty depth that make this dish stand out.
Step 6: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese Sauce
Add your drained pasta and broccoli back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure every macaroni and broccoli floret is evenly coated with that glorious sauce. This step brings everything together into one harmonious dish that’s just begging to be served.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Give your Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe one final taste. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate. Now you are ready to enjoy this rich, comforting, veggie-packed classic that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top to add a pop of color and a fresh brightness that cuts through the creamy richness. For a little crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers make a delightful contrast and elevate the texture.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs excellently with simple green salads, roasted root vegetables, or even a crisp coleslaw to balance the indulgence with some crisp textures and fresh flavors. If you want a heartier meal, grilled chicken or crispy bacon on the side are wonderful additions.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider baking the Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then broiling it for a golden, bubbly crust. Alternatively, serve it in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the broccoli fresh and prevent the pasta from drying out, add a splash of milk before reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Place the cooled mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little milk as needed to maintain that creamy texture. You can also reheat in the microwave, using short bursts and stirring in between to avoid overcooking or drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic and ideal for holding sauce, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to create the roux, and use gluten-free pasta. The result will still be just as creamy and delicious.
Can I add other vegetables besides broccoli?
Definitely! Cauliflower, peas, or spinach can be great additions or substitutes. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep them crisp-tender and not mushy.
How do I make this recipe extra cheesy?
Feel free to increase the amount of shredded cheese or add stronger cheeses like Gruyère or smoked cheddar for an even richer flavor. Just be sure to melt it slowly to keep the sauce smooth.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use yellow mustard or skip it entirely. The sauce will still be flavorful, but the little tang that mustard adds is a nice touch that brightens the whole dish.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of familiar comfort and fresh veggie goodness, thoughtfully made with straightforward ingredients and simple steps. I hope you give it a try soon and add your own personal twist to make it your family’s new favorite!
Print
Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic mac and cheese recipe, featuring tender broccoli florets mixed into a rich and velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines creamy textures with nutritious veggies for a balanced dish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil Pasta and Broccoli: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. About 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta. Drain both together and set aside.
- Make the Roux: Using the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute. This will form a roux which is the base for the creamy sauce.
- Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper into the thickened milk mixture, combining well for balanced flavor.
- Add Cheese: Lower the heat to a simmer and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Stir constantly until the cheese fully melts and you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli back into the cheese sauce. Stir well until everything is evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and add any additional salt or pepper as needed. Serve the creamy broccoli mac and cheese hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use full-fat milk for a richer sauce or substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
- Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a warm flavor twist.
- Broccoli can be substituted with cauliflower or other favorite vegetables.
- For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or crispy bacon.
- If you like, sprinkle extra Parmesan or breadcrumbs on top and broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy crust.
