The Healthier Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Broccoli Recipe is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food you love, transforming it into a nourishing, veggie-loaded meal that still feels indulgent. Picture tender macaroni shells enveloped in a creamy white cheddar cheese sauce, perfectly balanced by the sweet depth of slowly caramelized onions and the bright freshness of steamed broccoli. This dish brings together wholesome ingredients, ensuring you can enjoy all the comforting flavors with a lighter, vibrant touch that your family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the list intimidate you—these simple, wholesome ingredients are the foundation of the dish’s incredible flavor and texture. Each element plays an essential role, from the savory caramelized onions adding sweetness, to the broccoli giving crunch and a pop of green, and the rich cheese sauce tying it all together in creamy harmony.
- 2 medium onions: Thickly sliced for that perfect, slow-cooked caramelization that creates natural sweetness.
- 2–3 teaspoons olive oil: For sautéing onions and adding healthy fats.
- 1 dash salt: Enhances the onions’ natural flavors during caramelization.
- 1–2 teaspoons water: Used to deglaze the pan, capturing those golden brown bits for intensified flavor.
- 2 quarts water: For boiling pasta and broccoli.
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the pasta water and developing flavor.
- 2 ½ cups macaroni shells: Small shapes that hold sauce beautifully.
- 2 heads fresh broccoli: Cut into uniform florets for even cooking and vibrant color.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the cheese sauce.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Balances butter and helps create a smooth roux for the sauce.
- ½ cup whole wheat flour: A healthier thickener to give the sauce just the right body.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Seasons the cheese sauce perfectly (adjust to taste).
- Pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances the creaminess.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Offers mild, aromatic depth without overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Brightens and cuts through the richness with tang.
- 3 dashes hot sauce: Provides a gentle, savory heat (Tobasco is a perfect choice).
- 1 ½ cups Blue Diamond Almond Breeze Almondmilk (Original): Keeps things light and dairy-free in part, while adding smoothness.
- 2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded and packed: Melts beautifully into the sauce to create that classic mac and cheese flavor.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Adds a touch of decadence to the final sauce texture.
How to Make Healthier Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by slicing two onions into half-inch thick slices—you want them thick enough so they soften evenly without disintegrating. Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sprinkle a dash of salt to help draw out their moisture. Sauté for about 8 to 10 minutes, then lower the heat and keep cooking on medium low, stirring every 10 minutes. If the onions begin sticking or drying out, add another teaspoon of oil. In the final 10 minutes, splash 1 to 2 teaspoons of water to deglaze the pan, scraping up those golden browned bits that boost flavor. When the onions are a rich golden brown and sweet, remove them to a small bowl and keep warm.
Step 2: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
While the onions caramelize, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil and add a tablespoon of kosher salt. When boiling, add the macaroni shells. Stir occasionally and boil the pasta for about 4 minutes less than the package’s minimum cooking time—this keeps them slightly firm since they’ll cook more later. Just as the pasta has 3 minutes remaining, toss in the broccoli florets and cover with a lid. This lightly steams the broccoli until tender but still crisp, perfectly timed to finish alongside the pasta.
Step 3: Drain and Prep
Drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander. If your cheese sauce isn’t ready, just drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta and stir to keep them from sticking. This simple step ensures every bite stays perfectly coated and tender.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a new saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Whisk in ½ cup whole wheat flour and cook for a couple of minutes to form a roux—this cooks out the raw flour taste and thickens the sauce later. Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups of almond milk, stirring continuously to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free. Add ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and fresh cracked pepper to taste. Then stir in Dijon mustard and hot sauce for that signature tang and slight kick. Lower the heat and mix in the shredded white cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Pour the cheese sauce over the drained pasta and broccoli, add the caramelized onions, and gently stir until everything is evenly coated and heated through. The result is a beautifully balanced dish with the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy sauce, sweet onions, and crisp-tender broccoli.
How to Serve Healthier Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Add a final flourish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives to brighten the rich creamy dish. You can also dust a little smoked paprika on top for a subtle warmth and eye-catching color.
Side Dishes
This mac and cheese shines as a main dish but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a plate of roasted root vegetables. A crusty whole grain bread on the side also complements the creamy texture brilliantly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this healthier mac and cheese in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkling of panko breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil until golden and bubbly. It makes for impressive, cozy individual portions perfect for dinner parties or family meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Healthier Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Broccoli Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy, tasty lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely, too. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat with a splash of almond milk or water to loosen the sauce as needed, stirring often. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the cheese sauce creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Absolutely! Regular cow’s milk or any other plant-based milk can be used to make the cheese sauce. Just choose unsweetened varieties to keep the taste savory and balanced.
What if I don’t have whole wheat flour?
You can use all-purpose flour instead, but whole wheat adds extra fiber and a slight nutty flavor that enhances this Healthier Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Broccoli Recipe.
Can I prepare the caramelized onions in advance?
Yes, caramelized onions can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. This actually makes dinner prep quicker and the flavors deepen over time.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Swap the butter for a vegan alternative, use vegan cheese, and use almond milk or another plant milk. Adjust seasonings to taste, and you’ll have a creamy, satisfying vegan version!
How do I know when the onions are perfectly caramelized?
The onions should be a deep golden brown, soft, and sweet with no burnt bits. It takes patience, but the slow cooking develops incredible flavor that’s key to this recipe.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to try this Healthier Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Broccoli Recipe—it’s one of those dishes that comforts your soul while sneaking in veggie goodness. The layers of flavor, creamy textures, and wholesome ingredients make it a guaranteed family favorite that you’ll return to again and again. Grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!
Print
Healthier Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 5.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthier Mac and Cheese recipe features creamy white cheddar combined with tender broccoli florets and sweet caramelized onions. The use of whole wheat macaroni shells, olive oil, and almond milk makes it a nutritious twist on the classic comfort dish, offering a rich flavor with a lighter, wholesome profile perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
Caramelized Onions
- 2 medium onions
- 2–3 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 dash salt
- 1–2 teaspoons water (to deglaze the pan)
Pasta and Broccoli
- 2 quarts water
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for the pasta water)
- 2 1/2 cups macaroni shells (small size preferred)
- 2 heads fresh broccoli (stemmed and cut into similar sized florets)
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 3 dashes hot sauce (Tobasco recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups Blue Diamond Almond Breeze Almondmilk (Original)
- 2 cups white cheddar cheese (shredded & packed)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Slice the onions into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick pieces. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 teaspoons olive oil. Add onions and sauté for 8-10 minutes, then reduce heat to medium low and sprinkle a dash of salt. Continue cooking for 35-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes and adding more oil if they stick. In the last 10 minutes, deglaze the pan with 1-2 teaspoons water, scraping up browned bits. Remove onions once deeply browned and sweet.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt, then add pasta shells. Cook for about 4 minutes less than package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Broccoli: While pasta cooks, cut broccoli stems and florets into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Steam Broccoli with Pasta: When the pasta has about 3 minutes remaining, add broccoli on top and cover with a lid. Let them steam together without lifting the lid for those last 3 minutes.
- Drain Pasta and Broccoli: Drain both vegetables and pasta together in a colander. If the cheese sauce isn’t ready, drizzle with a little olive oil and toss to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in whole wheat flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, cooking until a light roux forms, about 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in almond milk, stirring continuously until sauce thickens. Add Dijon mustard, hot sauce, and stir in shredded white cheddar cheese and heavy cream until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Combine Everything: Add the caramelized onions and drained pasta with broccoli to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir well to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the mac and cheese hot, optionally garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition.
- Caramelizing onions requires patience but adds a deep, sweet flavor that balances the cheese sauce perfectly.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach to vary flavors.
- Adjust the hot sauce and mustard to your taste preferences to customize the cheesy sauce.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure cheese is suitable for vegetarians.
- For a dairy-free version, skip the heavy cream and use vegan cheese alternatives.
