Name: Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces macaroni; 1 large head broccoli, chopped; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 and 1/4 cups whole milk; 3 cups grated mature cheddar; Salt to taste; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

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Nothing warms the heart like a bubbling dish of homemade Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese wafting through the kitchen. Imagine breaking that golden-brown crust, revealing creamy cheese mingling with perfectly tender broccoli and pasta. It’s not just a sight; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures, rich yet surprisingly light with the fresh crunch that broccoli adds. I still remember my grandma making a similar dish on chilly Sunday afternoons, the laughter from family gatherings mixing with the aroma of melting cheese.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese

This Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese isn’t just comfort food; it’s an experience, making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. With its creamy sauce and crunchy panko topping, this dish guarantees to please palates of all ages. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delightful meal that’s sure to brighten your day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in about 45 minutes, even on a busy weeknight!
Irresistible Flavor: Each forkful bursts with cheesy goodness and that nutty flavor from the baked panko.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Bright green broccoli peeking through that golden topping makes it a showstopper on any table.
Flexible Serving: Great as a hearty main or a side dish for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily customizable for gluten-free diets by substituting with gluten-free pasta and panko.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Macaroni: Use 16 ounces of classic macaroni pasta for that perfect bite; any small pasta can work, like shells or rotini.
Broccoli: One large head of broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces to evenly distribute the nutrients throughout the dish.
Butter: Three tablespoons of unsalted butter enhance flavor, making the sauce luscious while giving a richness that complements the cheese.
Flour: Three tablespoons of all-purpose flour thicken the cheese sauce; you can substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Whole Milk: Two and a quarter cups of whole milk add creaminess. For a lighter version, feel free to use skim milk, but avoid non-dairy milk as it might alter the texture.
Mature Cheddar: Three cups (about 12 ounces) of grated aged cheddar provide a robust flavor. A mix of cheeses can add complexity—think about combining mozzarella or gouda.
Salt: Add salt to taste, adjusting to your preference, especially since cheese can be salty.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Half a cup brings that delightful crunch. Consider seasoned panko for an extra flavor boost!
Garlic Powder: One teaspoon elevates the flavor profile with a subtle kick.

How to Make Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Preheat and Prepare: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Next, in a large pot filled with salted water, bring the macaroni to a boil and cook according to package instructions. Just five minutes before you expect the macaroni to be done, toss in your chopped broccoli. The goal is to have them both cooked until al dente before draining them together in a colander.

Create the Cheese Sauce: While the pasta and broccoli cook, grab a medium saucepan and melt three tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour with a whisk until it’s combined and starts bubbling—this should take about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Then sprinkle in your grated cheddar, stirring until it’s completely melted and incorporated. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt!

Make the Crunchy Topping: In a separate bowl, melt one tablespoon of salted butter in the microwave. Mix in the panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder until they’re evenly coated. This will give your topping that irresistible crunch—the contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.

Combine and Transfer: Add your broccoli and macaroni back into the pot with the delicious cheese sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring every piece is covered in that cheesy goodness. Give it another pinch of salt if needed—this step makes all the difference! Then transfer this comforting dish into a greased baking dish, ideally 3.5-4 quarts.

Add the Topping: Let’s sprinkle those buttery panko breadcrumbs over your broccoli mac and cheese uniformly. This will create a beautiful, crunchy layer that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Now, place this in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the top is crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on it—overbaking might dry out the wonderful sauce!

Storing & Reheating

For storing, if you somehow have leftovers (which is rare!), let your Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese cool completely at room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. If you want to freeze it, scoop individual portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it should last up to 3 months. Reheating is simple—just pop it into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes covered in foil to retain moisture, then uncover for a few more minutes until heated through. Be aware that reheat may alter the texture, but a little splash of milk can help refresh the creaminess.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid mushy pasta by not overcooking it in the initial boil; it will continue cooking in the oven.
Use room-temperature cheese for easier melting; set it out while preparing your mac and cheese.
If the cheese sauce seems too thick, feel free to whisk in a touch of extra milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Looking for extra flavor? Add in a pinch of cayenne or a touch of mustard powder to the sauce for a subtle kick.
If you’re preparing ahead of time, assemble everything but the breadcrumbs, cover tightly, and refrigerate, then sprinkle the topping on right before baking.

There’s something magical about bringing people around the table with a warm dish of Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese. It’s comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor or fun. You can tailor this dish to your family’s taste, making it a canvas for culinary creativity. From serving it up on a cozy weeknight to impressing guests at a gathering, the options are endless.

So, explore this classic recipe, sprinkle in some joy, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure you follow the cooking instructions on the package as cooking times can differ slightly.

What kind of cheese works best?

Aged cheddar is always a fantastic choice for flavor, but feel free to get creative! Try mixing in mozzarella for a gooey texture or gouda for a smoky touch. You can even use a vegan cheese alternative if you want a dairy-free version.

How do I make this dish spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce will inject some spice. Alternatively, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top before serving can work wonders, too!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time! Just assemble everything without baking, cover tightly, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, add your breadcrumb topping and bake as directed.