Description
This Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a wholesome and delicious twist on the classic comfort food. Featuring tender elbow macaroni combined with steamed broccoli, creamy cheddar and gruyere cheese sauce enriched with Dijon mustard, this recipe is both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it balances cheesy goodness with the nutritious bite of broccoli for a family-friendly meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Steam Broccoli: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets on top of the pasta pot using a steamer basket or similar setup for 1-2 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain the pasta and blanch the steamed broccoli briefly in cold water to retain its color and texture, then set aside.
- Make Roux: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously until the mixture is combined and turns golden, about 2 minutes. This roux will be the base of your cheese sauce, helping it thicken smoothly.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the 2% milk to the roux to avoid lumps. Add the Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and gruyere cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Fold in the cooked pasta and blanched broccoli gently, making sure everything is evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve: Serve the Broccoli Mac and Cheese immediately while hot and creamy for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- This healthier version of classic mac and cheese incorporates broccoli for added nutrition and a fresh bite.
- Steaming broccoli on top of the pasta pot saves time and minimizes cleanup.
- Use a combination of cheddar and gruyere for a rich, flavorful cheese sauce.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest; leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra mustard to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 607 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 439 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
