Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this mouthwatering macaroni and cheese with broccoli recipe. This dish combines the creamy, comforting flavors of classic macaroni and cheese with the delightful crunch of steamed broccoli, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want a satisfying meal for the family, this recipe is sure to impress.
Macaroni and cheese is a timeless comfort food, and when you add broccoli to the mix, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting the nutritional value. This recipe is easy to follow, and you can prepare it in less than an hour. The best part? You can customize it to suit your family’s preferences, whether you prefer a mild or bold flavor profile.
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful macaroni and cheese with broccoli recipe:
- 1 pound of elbow macaroni
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 2 cups of steamed broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Now, let’s dive into the cooking process:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the milk and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce. Stir until well coated.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish. Top with steamed broccoli florets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- (Optional) Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the macaroni and cheese before baking for added texture and crunch.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious macaroni and cheese with broccoli!
This macaroni and cheese with broccoli recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, follow this easy-to-follow recipe, and prepare to indulge in a tasty and nutritious meal.
