Name: Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli: A Warm Hug on a Plate
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni (Substitute with shells or penne if preferred.); 2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets (Frozen broccoli can be used after thawing.); 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Substitute with Gruyere or a blend for richer taste.); 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (Provides a salty, nutty flavor.); 3 cups Whole Milk (Low-fat can be used, but less creamy.); 4 tablespoons Butter (For making the roux.); 4 tablespoons Flour (To thicken the cheese sauce.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko is especially good.)

The moment I feel a crisp chill in the air, I instantly crave comfort food that warms both my heart and belly. That’s when my Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli comes to life, effortlessly combining the creamy indulgence of rich cheddar with vibrant green florets. This dish isn’t just another mac and cheese; it’s a family favorite that celebrates the wholesome flavors of fall while sneaking in some veggies. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe takes hardly any time to prepare and is just as satisfying on lazy weekends. Plus, it can easily be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to spend more moments enjoying a cozy evening with loved ones. Ready to dive into a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this mac & cheese special?

Comforting and Satisfying: This Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli is truly a hug in a bowl, combining creamy cheese sauce with hearty pasta and fresh broccoli.
Quick to Prepare: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip it up in less than 30 minutes.
Customizable Delight: Add your favorite proteins or extra veggies, like roasted butternut squash for a cozy twist.
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble it a day in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, just like my Cheese Danish Actually.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness, making it a family-friendly option everyone can enjoy.
Leftover Love: Delicious as a leftover! Just reheat and savor again for lunch or dinner. Don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing salad like my Lemon Butter Broccoli for a complete meal!

Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Ingredients

For the Pasta and Broccoli

Elbow Macaroni – This main carb component holds the cheese sauce perfectly; substitute with shells or penne if you prefer.
Fresh Broccoli Florets – Adds a pop of color and nutrients; feel free to use frozen broccoli, simply thaw and drain beforehand.

For the Cheese Sauce

Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides that essential tangy flavor; try swapping it with Gruyere or a blend for a richer taste.
Parmesan Cheese – Offers a salty, nutty kick that beautifully balances the creaminess of the dish.
Whole Milk – Contributes to the richness of the cheese sauce; low-fat works, but less creaminess will result.
Butter – A must-have for making the roux that gives the sauce its smooth texture.
Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce, ensuring the perfect consistency for your cozy mac and cheese.

For Seasoning and Topping

Seasonings (garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, pepper) – Enhances the flavor depth within the cheese sauce.
Breadcrumbs (optional) – Creates a delightful crunchy topping for added texture; Panko breadcrumbs are especially good.

This Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli promises to deliver everything you adore about comfort food, with a touch of nutrition from the broccoli!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli

Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until it reaches al dente, about 7 minutes. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, carefully add the fresh broccoli florets so they retain their bright green color. Once both pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Make Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in 3 cups of whole milk while constantly whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, around 5-7 minutes. Stir in seasonings and then mix in 2 cups of sharp cheddar and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
With the cheese sauce ready, gently fold the drained pasta and broccoli into the creamy mixture. Stir well with a spatula to ensure every piece of macaroni and broccoli is coated in the delicious cheese sauce. This comforting blend is the essence of the Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli and now awaits the final baking touch.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your baking dish. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If desired, top generously with breadcrumbs for a crispy texture, and sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.

Step 5: Final Step
Once out of the oven, let your Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. This crucial step allows the flavors to settle and ensures the dish remains creamy while serving. Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting hug this dish brings to chilly autumn evenings!

Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Variations

Feel free to tailor this cozy mac and cheese recipe to your taste, creating a dish that’s uniquely yours.

Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or crispy bacon for a hearty boost. This twist not only enhances flavor but also satisfies hungry appetites.
Veggie Power: Toss in roasted butternut squash or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies. The natural sweetness and earthiness pair wonderfully with the creamy cheese.
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute gluten-free pasta and flour for a friendly option. Enjoy the same rich flavors without the gluten—perfect for those with dietary needs.
Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat with cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. Just a hint of spice can elevate the entire dish and keep everyone on their toes!
Cheesy Swap: Try Gruyere, fontina, or a blend for more complex flavors. Each cheese brings its personality, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Creamy Makeover: For even more indulgence, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese before baking. You’ll be left with an irresistible, luxurious sauce.
Crunchy Topping Variation: Instead of regular breadcrumbs, top with crushed potato chips or crushed crackers for a fun, crunchy twist. This playful element adds unexpected flavor and texture!
Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or chives for a burst of freshness. These herbs can beautifully complement the richness of the cheese, creating a delightful balance.

Feel inspired? There’s plenty of room for creativity with this cozy staple. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing side salad or serve it alongside a dish like my Pomegranate Feta Cheese for a balanced dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. To prepare ahead, mix the cooked pasta and broccoli with the cheese sauce and transfer it to a greased baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the cover and pop it into a preheated oven, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through. This method not only saves valuable time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, delivering a dish that is just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the ease of having a comforting meal ready to go!

What to Serve with Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli

Creating a comforting meal is all about delightful pairings that elevate the experience.

Crispy Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the mac and cheese.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Earthy and nutty, the roasted sprouts add a delicious contrast to the creamy dish while bringing seasonal flavors to the table.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up leftover cheese sauce, adding a satisfying texture to your dinner spread.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty and wholesome, quinoa tossed with fresh herbs brings a lightness that balances the meal while providing extra nutrients.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp offers a sweet end to the meal, with its buttery topping complementing the rich mac and cheese beautifully.
Hot Apple Cider: A comforting drink option that enhances the cozy vibes of your dinner, with notes of cinnamon and clove transitioning you into fall.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots add a colorful and flavorful touch, making every bite of mac and cheese even more enjoyable.
Balsamic Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out natural sweetness, and the balsamic glaze adds a lovely tang that pairs exquisitely with the cheesy dish.
Creamy Coleslaw: Crunchy and creamy, coleslaw brightens the plate while providing a delicious textural contrast to the soft mac and cheese.

Storage Tips for Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure the dish is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy your Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of milk to revive creaminess.

Make-Ahead: Feel free to assemble the dish a day in advance and pop it in the fridge. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to serve it!

Expert Tips for Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese

Cheese Selection: Use high-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Experiment with Gruyere for a richer taste but avoid low-quality cheese to prevent a grainy sauce.
Perfect Broccoli: To keep broccoli vibrant and tender, add it during the last two minutes of pasta cooking. Overcooking can lead to mushiness!
Smooth Sauce: Always remove the sauce from heat before adding cheese. This helps keep the sauce silky and prevents a grainy texture.
Make-Ahead Delight: You can assemble the Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli a day in advance. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time when ready to cook!
Crispy Topping: For an extra layer of texture, use panko breadcrumbs; they give a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of whole milk for added creaminess!

Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, select fresh broccoli florets that are bright green and firm. Avoid any yellowing or dark spots, which indicate aging. If opting for frozen broccoli, make sure to thoroughly thaw and drain it prior to using to prevent excess water in the dish.

Can I store leftovers of this mac and cheese?
Very! Store any leftover Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before sealing, let it cool completely to help preserve its freshness.

How do I freeze the Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli?
Of course! To freeze, allow the mac and cheese to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or bake directly from frozen; just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What can I do if my cheese sauce becomes grainy?
Oh no! To prevent a grainy cheese sauce, it’s crucial to remove the saucepan from heat before adding the grated cheese. Gradual incorporation while whisking can also help maintain a smooth texture. If it does get grainy, try blending it briefly with a stick blender for a smooth finish!

Is this dish suitable for children or those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli is a hit with kids thanks to its cheesy goodness. For those with dietary restrictions, it can be easily customized—just use gluten-free pasta and flour and select cheese alternatives for lactose-free diets. Always check the labels for any specific allergies, especially with cheese and seasonings.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes indeed! You can assemble the entire Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remember to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time so it heats through evenly!