This Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is a classic comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender pasta and broccoli florets. The crunchy panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful texture, making this dish a satisfying and delicious meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

Cheesy and Flavorful: This mac and cheese is packed with cheesy flavor, thanks to the generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese in the sauce and the crunchy topping.
Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
Healthy and Delicious: This dish is a great source of protein and nutrients, thanks to the pasta, broccoli, and cheese.
Versatile: It’s delicious on its own, but you can also add your favorite toppings or serve it as a side dish.

Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

Shell Pasta: I like to use medium shell pasta for this recipe, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a healthy and flavorful element to the dish.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the cheese sauce.
Flour: This helps to thicken the sauce.
Milk: I use whole milk for a creamy sauce, but you can also use 2% milk or skim milk.
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, and Nutmeg: These seasonings add flavor to the sauce.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I use shredded sharp cheddar cheese for its bold flavor and melty texture.
Seasoned Panko Bread Crumbs: These add a crunchy and flavorful topping to the mac and cheese.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
Veggie Variety: Toss in some other vegetables, like cauliflower, carrots, or peas.
Different Cheeses: Try using different types of cheese, like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
Herby Twist: Add some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to the sauce.

How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

Step 1: Preheat and Blanch the Broccoli

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes. Immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package directions, but reduce the cooking time by about 2 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 2 minutes, whisking often. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes, whisking continuously, until the sauce has thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Combine the cooked pasta, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Pour the mixture into an 11×7 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar cheese and panko bread crumbs.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Tricks

Pasta Texture: Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when baked in the casserole.
Roux: Cook the roux for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste before adding the milk.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking and avoid overbaking it.
Cheese: Shredding your own cheese from a block will result in a smoother and creamier sauce.

How to Serve

This Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to this dish.
Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is always a good idea with cheesy pasta dishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can cook the pasta and blanch the broccoli ahead of time.
Storing: Store leftover casserole in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just thaw them before blanching.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any type of cheese you like, but I recommend using a good melting cheese, such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.

Can I make this casserole without a topping?
Yes, you can omit the panko breadcrumb topping if you prefer. You can also sprinkle the casserole with extra cheese instead.

There you have it! A cheesy and delicious recipe for Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli. I hope you enjoy it!

Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli Recipe