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5 from 3 votes

Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Healthier broccoli mac and cheese for a quick weeknight dinner. Creamy rich sauce, chewy pasta, and lots of cheese! This easy dinner is so comforting and kid-approved!
Author Diana
Servings 4 servings
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (225g) macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 and ½ cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cups cheese such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby

Instructions

  • Cook pasta to al dente in salted water according to package directions.
  • Steam the broccoli over the pasta as it cooks in a colander, it needs just 4-5 minutes.
  • In a large pan or pot, melt the butter and add the flour. Cook the flour for a minute then add the milk and the seasonings. Whisk as it reaches a simmer.
  • Add the shredded/grated cheese, and whisk it in so it melts and you get a smooth sauce.
  • Add the cooked pasta and steamed broccoli, stir to combine and serve.

Video

Notes

  • Use any type of short pasta shape such as macaroni, rotini, fusilli, or pasta shells.
  • Make sure that you don't overcook the pasta, you need it to be just al dente.
  • Steam the broccoli before adding it to the pasta, either in a separate pot, over the pasta, or in the microwave.
  • The most popular choice of cheese is cheddar, don't use extra sharp or aged cheddar. Go for medium or sharp cheddar, other great choices are Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, Fontina, or Colby.
  • For a silky smooth rich sauce, get a block of cheese instead of the pre-grated stuff. The store grated cheese doesn't melt very well as it contains anti-caking agents.
  • When reheating mac and cheese, add a splash of water as the sauce will be too thick.
  • You can make this in the Instant Pot if you prefer, check out my Instant Pot broccoli mac and cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 577kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 715mg | Potassium: 455mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1173IU | Vitamin C: 41mg | Calcium: 544mg | Iron: 2mg