Description

This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender elbow macaroni and vibrant broccoli florets in a rich, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. The sauce is thickened with a classic roux and flavored with garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard for a deliciously comforting and wholesome meal perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
4 cups broccoli florets, chopped

Cheese 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook Pasta and Broccoli: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. About 2-3 minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to cook together. Drain both pasta and broccoli, then set aside.
Make Roux: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux, ensuring there are no lumps and it is slightly bubbling.
Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for 4-5 minutes or until it begins to thicken to a creamy consistency.
Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to flavor the sauce evenly.
Melt the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to a low simmer. Slowly add the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until all cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
Combine Pasta and Broccoli with Sauce: Add the drained macaroni and broccoli into the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta and vegetables evenly with the creamy cheese mixture.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese and adjust the salt and pepper as desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best creamy texture and flavor.

Notes

For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Broccoli can be steamed separately if preferred, but cooking it with pasta saves time and helps retain nutrients.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor results.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.