Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting pasta dish that combines tender macaroni, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe delivers classic comfort food with the added benefit of nutritious vegetables. The creamy sauce is made with butter, garlic, milk, and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a smooth and flavorful coating for the pasta and broccoli. Because the dish cooks quickly and requires only simple ingredients, it is perfect for busy weeknight dinners. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that both kids and adults will enjoy. This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe is also a great way to add vegetables to a favorite comfort dish.
Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich and creamy pasta dish.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta shells | 8 ounces | Medium shells |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Base for sauce |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Shallot | 1 | Minced |
| All purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | Thickens sauce |
| Whole milk | 1⅓ cups | Creamy base |
| Half and half | 1 cup | Richness |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Flavor depth |
| Salt | To taste | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups | Chopped |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 6 ounces | Freshly grated |
Why Broccoli Works Well in Mac and Cheese
Broccoli adds texture, color, and nutrients to mac and cheese while balancing the richness of the cheese sauce.
Ingredient Tips
Use freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well.
2. Melt the Butter
In a large skillet melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Aromatics
Add garlic and minced shallot to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the Flour
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
5. Add the Milk and Cream
Gradually whisk in the milk, half and half, and Dijon mustard.
6. Thicken the Sauce
Continue cooking and stirring for about 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
7. Season the Sauce
Add salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Add the Pasta and Broccoli
Stir the cooked pasta and chopped broccoli into the sauce.
9. Add the Cheese
Add grated cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
10. Serve
Serve immediately while the mac and cheese is hot and creamy.
Helpful Cooking Tips
• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.
• Stir the sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
• Do not overcook the broccoli so it remains bright green.
• Add extra milk if the sauce becomes too thick.
• Serve immediately for the best texture.
Serving, Storing, and Making Ahead
Serving Ideas
Serve creamy broccoli mac and cheese with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
Make Ahead
The cheese sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when needed.
Conclusion
Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that combines rich cheddar sauce with tender broccoli and pasta. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and provides a delicious way to include vegetables in a classic comfort meal. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it is sure to become a family favorite.
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Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese – Easy Cheesy Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy broccoli mac and cheese made with tender pasta shells, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese sauce for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
8 ounces pasta shells
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic minced
1 shallot minced
2 tablespoons flour
1 1/3 cups whole milk
1 cup half and half
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups chopped broccoli
6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese grated
Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water and drain.
2. Melt butter in skillet.
3. Cook garlic and shallot until fragrant.
4. Whisk in flour and cook briefly.
5. Gradually whisk in milk half and half and Dijon mustard.
6. Cook until sauce thickens.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Stir in pasta broccoli and cheese.
9. Cook until cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy.
10. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheddar cheese.
Add milk if sauce becomes too thick.
Serve immediately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can frozen broccoli be used?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well if thawed and drained.
What cheese works best for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor.
Can this recipe be baked?
Yes, transfer it to a baking dish and bake with extra cheese on top.
How do you keep mac and cheese creamy when reheating?
Add a splash of milk while reheating.