Go Back
–+ servings
Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli

Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli: A Warm Hug on a Plate

This Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli combines creamy cheddar with broccoli for a comforting fall dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Broccoli
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Substitute with shells or penne if preferred.
  • 2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets Frozen broccoli can be used after thawing.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 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.
For Seasoning and Topping
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko is especially good.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • colander
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes. During the last 2 minutes, add fresh broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add whole milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in seasonings and blend in cheddar and Parmesan until creamy.
  3. Fold in the drained pasta and broccoli into the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat completely.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and additional cheddar if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  5. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is perfect for leftovers! Reheat and enjoy with a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!