Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This creamy broccoli mac and cheese is a comforting twist on a classic favorite. Tender pasta shells are combined with fresh broccoli and a rich, cheesy sauce for a satisfying meal that’s perfect any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
• 6 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Step 2: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and shallot, cooking and stirring frequently until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Step 3: Whisk in the flour and cook until it turns lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, half and half, and Dijon mustard. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. If it becomes too thick, add more milk as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Stir in the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, and grated cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5. Step 5: Serve the creamy broccoli mac and cheese immediately while warm and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Substitute broccoli with cauliflower or add sautéed mushrooms for a variation.
• Use sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy taste.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent the sauce from breaking.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the medium pasta shells with elbow macaroni, penne, or any short pasta shape that holds sauce well.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese sauce and cook the pasta in advance, then combine and reheat before serving. However, fresh assembly and gentle reheating yield the creamiest results.

Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 102 reviews

This creamy broccoli mac and cheese is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic dish, combining tender pasta shells with vibrant broccoli florets and a rich, sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal, the smooth and cheesy sauce made with a blend of milk, half and half, and Dijon mustard delivers a luscious texture and tangy flavor.

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Cheese

• 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
• 6 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the medium pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics: Melt the unsalted butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and shallot, cooking while stirring frequently until they become fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Make the roux and cheese sauce: Whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking until it is lightly browned, roughly 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, half and half, and Dijon mustard. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add more milk to reach your desired consistency. Season the sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Combine pasta, broccoli, and cheese: Stir the cooked pasta, chopped broccoli florets, and grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese into the sauce. Continue cooking and stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through, allowing the cheese to melt into the creamy mixture.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the creamy broccoli mac and cheese immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• To make the broccoli tender, ensure it is chopped into small, bite-sized florets before adding it to the sauce.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can add a little more milk or half and half to adjust the consistency.
• For a sharper cheese flavor, use extra-sharp cheddar or add a small amount of Parmesan cheese.
• Use gluten-free flour and pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Keywords: broccoli mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, broccoli cheddar pasta, comfort food, easy pasta recipe