Baked mac and cheese with broccoli

I still remember the countless family dinners where a warm, cheesy dish was the star of the table. That dish was none other than a classic mac and cheese, a comfort food staple that never fails to bring a smile. My version, featuring a delightful addition, has become a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe combines the creamy richness of cheese sauce with the nutritious goodness of steamed broccoli, all wrapped up in a perfectly cooked pasta package. The result is a dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome, making it a hit with adults and kids alike.

By perfecting the cooking time and technique, I’ve managed to achieve a delightful texture contrast between the creamy pasta and the crunchy breadcrumb topping, elevating this comfort food to a new level.

My Favorite Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli Recipe

Baked mac and cheese with broccoli is a classic comfort food, and I’ve found the perfect way to make it. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with simple ingredients, ready in under an hour, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.

It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s a great way to get kids to eat veggies, and it’s cozy and comforting without being too heavy. The combination of creamy pasta, fresh broccoli, and a crispy breadcrumb topping makes for a satisfying meal.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious vegetables. The carefully crafted cheese sauce uses a combination of sharp cheddar for flavor depth and American cheese for a creamy texture.

• The use of fresh broccoli maintains its texture and nutritional value without overwhelming the dish.
• The breadcrumb topping adds a delightful textural contrast with its golden-brown crispiness.
• Using the right pasta shape, like shells or cavatappi, makes a huge difference in capturing the delicious cheese sauce.

This recipe has become my go-to comfort food that satisfies cravings while providing some nutritional value from the broccoli, making it a great addition to your collection of recipes.

Simple Ingredients You’ll Need

To make my favorite baked mac and cheese with broccoli, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward components, which come together to create a rich and satisfying dish.

Pasta and Broccoli

For this recipe, I recommend using 12 ounces of good-quality pasta, such as medium shells, elbows, or cavatappi, which hold sauce well. You’ll also need 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets, though frozen can be used as a substitute.

Cheese Sauce Components

The cheese sauce is made with a roux of 2-4 tablespoons of butter and an equal amount of all-purpose flour, mixed with 2-3 cups of milk, preferably whole milk, and a blend of seasonings including salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. A combination of 2 cups of sharp cheddar and some American cheese slices provides the best meltability and flavor.

Crispy Topping Ingredients

For the crispy topping, you’ll need panko breadcrumbs tossed with a tablespoon of melted butter, and optionally, a sprinkle of additional cheese for an extra-golden crust.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step cooking instructions for the perfect baked mac and cheese with broccoli. To start, preheating the oven to 400°F is crucial, and preparing a 2-quart casserole dish with a light coating of cooking spray is the first step.

Creating the Perfect Cheese Sauce

For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and seasonings, cooking until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and add most of the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Cooking Pasta and Broccoli

Cook pasta in salted water for 2 minutes less than the package directions. Add broccoli to the pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking, or blanch it separately.

Assembling and Baking

Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the cheese sauce, then transfer to a baking dish. Top with a breadcrumb mixture and remaining cheese, and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly. To ensure a smooth navigation through the cooking process, follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be able to skip the primary cooking worries.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

To get the most out of your baked mac and cheese with broccoli, consider these serving and storage tips. I recommend serving it immediately after baking for the best texture.

It pairs well with rotisserie chicken or a green salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.