Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
Mac and cheese with broccoli is a classic American dish typically made by combining macaroni pasta with a creamy cheese sauce and fresh or cooked broccoli.
Delicious and Healthy Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
The ultimate comfort dish with a healthy twist—Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is here to revolutionize your meal times. While traditional mac and cheese warms the soul, our revamped version adds a nutritious punch that’s sure to impress food enthusiasts across the spectrum. Let’s dive into this delicious amalgamation that’s both soul-satisfying and body-nurturing.
Health Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli is not just a vibrant green addition to your plate; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and even compounds that support immune health. It’s great for digestion, thanks to its substantial fiber content, and consuming it regularly can bolster your body’s natural defenses against illness.
Mac and Cheese – A Classic Comfort Food
Who doesn’t cherish a hot, creamy bowl of mac and cheese? Adored by generations, this classic dish has made a name for itself as the epitome of comfort food. Its rich, cheesy goodness is a canvas for culinary experimentation, adapting to endless variations to tantalize the taste buds.
The Perfect Combination – Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
Incorporating broccoli into your mac and cheese not only amps up the health quotient but also adds a delightful texture and an earthy flavor profile that elevates the dish. The result is a more wholesome version that maintains the integrity of your beloved comfort food while making room for more greens.
Recipe and Cooking Tips
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate Healthy Mac and Cheese with Broccoli.
Ingredients
- 8 ounce elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter, salted
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- ⅓ cup bread crumbs (for topping)
Instructions
Cook pasta and broccoli together:
- Bring water to a boil in a pot.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli.
- Drain and set aside the macaroni and broccoli.
Prepare the cheese sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth (about 2 minutes).
Combine and serve:
- Add the drained macaroni and broccoli to the cheese sauce, mixing until evenly coated.
- Transfer into a serving dish.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs for a crisp finish.
- Your mac and cheese with broccoli is ready to be devoured!
To achieve the creamiest mac and cheese, remember to consistently stir your sauce to prevent lumps. Additionally, try prepping the broccoli to bite-sized florets for even cooking and ease of eating.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to get creative with extra ingredients like bacon bits, sliced jalapeños, or even different cheese blends for added flair. For those looking for vegan or gluten-free alternatives, substitute the dairy products with plant-based options and opt for gluten-free macaroni.
Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is more than just a dish—it’s a statement that comfort food can be both indulgent and nutritious. Whether you’re a healthy eater, a cooking fanatic, or just someone who loves good food, this recipe offers a chance to enjoy a long-time favorite with fewer reservations.
Try out this delightful recipe yourself and revel in the balance of deliciousness and wholesome goodness on your plate. Who knew that healthy eating could taste so indulgent?
With these tips and tricks, you’re all set to indulge in a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a new go-to in your recipe repertoire. Bon appétit! # Delicious and Healthy Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
Perfect Pair for Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
- Grilled chicken: Adding strips of grilled chicken to your mac and cheese with broccoli can add a good source of protein to your meal.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve your mac and cheese with some roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts for an extra dose of nutrients and flavor.
- Garlic bread: The combination of cheesy mac and cheese with garlic bread is both comforting and delicious.
- Salad: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the mac and cheese dish.
- Baked beans: The sweetness from baked beans can complement the creaminess of the mac and cheese.
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Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
Ingredients
- 8 ounce elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets chopped
- 2 tbsp butter salted
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- ⅓ cup bread crumbs for topping
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a pot.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli to the pot.
- Drain the macaroni and broccoli.
Now, let's move on to the cheesy goodness:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful base.
- Gradually add milk while stirring until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Add cheddar cheese and continue stirring over low-medium heat until completely melted (about 2 minutes).
Bringing it all together:
- Add the drained macaroni and broccoli into the cheese sauce.
- Stir for about 2 more minutes until everything is well coated.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving bowl.
To add some extra crunch:
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over your delicious mac and cheese.
- Enjoy your homemade mac and cheese with a healthy twist!
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Notes
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