Flavor Packed Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Pasta
Photo by Nadiia Ganzhyi on Unsplash

Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food. But sometimes, the classic recipe can feel a bit one-dimensional. This recipe takes your mac and cheese to the next level, bursting with flavor from roasted broccoli, a creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of tangy mustard.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 
  2. Cook macaroni to al dente, adding broccoli for the last 3 minutes. Once done, drain the water.
  3. Melt butter in a pot, blend in flour to form a roux, then gradually whisk in milk. 
  4. Add onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until thick. 
  5. Next, mix in 2 1/2 cups cheddar and Parmesan until smooth. 
  6. Combine the sauce with the macaroni and broccoli. 
  7. Place mixture in a greased dish, top with remaining cheddar, and bake 20-25 minutes until golden. 
  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.