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One-Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

A creamy, lighter mac and cheese made in one pot with fresh broccoli for a nutritious and comforting meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups broccoli florets chopped small
  • 2.5 cups milk
  • 1 cup water or vegetable broth
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp paprika optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook briefly to form a light roux.
  3. Slowly add milk while whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Add water or broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in uncooked macaroni and cook, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add chopped broccoli halfway through cooking and continue simmering until pasta is tender.
  7. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan until melted and creamy.
  8. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, then rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk when reheating and use freshly shredded cheese for best melting.