Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese: A Comforting Classic with a Twist
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our irresistible recipe for Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese. This creamy and cheesy dish combines tender pasta shells, vibrant broccoli florets, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home, this Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese is sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients:
- Produce:
- 3 cups Broccoli florets
- Canned Goods:
- 4 tsp Better than bouillon chicken soup base
- 1 1/2 cup Evaporated milk
- Condiments:
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Pasta & Grains:
- 1 lb Pasta shells or elbow macaroni
- Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp Paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dairy:
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese, sharp
- 1/4 cup Heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- Liquids:
- 4 3/16 cups Water
Instructions:
- Prepare Broccoli and Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Using a slotted spoon, remove the broccoli from the pot and set aside. In the same pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, Better than bouillon chicken soup base, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined and creamy.
- Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese Sauce:
- Return the cooked pasta and broccoli to the pot and pour the cheese sauce over them. Gently toss until the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese to a serving dish and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Bread Crumb Topping: For added texture and flavor, top the Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese with a crispy bread crumb topping before baking. Simply mix together bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the dish before baking until golden brown and crunchy.
- Protein Boost: Add some protein to your mac and cheese by stirring in cooked chicken, ham, or bacon. The addition of meat adds heartiness and makes this dish even more satisfying.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Cauliflower Swap: For a keto-friendly and low-carb version of this dish, substitute cauliflower florets for the pasta. Steam or boil the cauliflower until tender, then proceed with the recipe as directed, skipping the step of cooking pasta.
- Creamy Cauliflower Sauce: Instead of the traditional cheese sauce, make a creamy cauliflower sauce by blending cooked cauliflower with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings until smooth. Pour the cauliflower sauce over the cooked broccoli for a creamy and satisfying alternative.
With its creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and vibrant broccoli, this Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this dish is sure to please the whole family. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy the comforting goodness of homemade mac and cheese any night of the week
Enhancing Your Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese Experience: Tips and Variations
- Garlic Infusion: Elevate the flavor profile of your Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese by adding roasted garlic to the cheese sauce. Simply roast a few cloves of garlic in the oven until golden and fragrant, then mash them into the sauce for a subtle yet delicious garlic undertone.
- Herbaceous Touch: Incorporate fresh herbs such as chopped parsley, thyme, or chives into the cheese sauce for a burst of freshness and color. These aromatic herbs add depth of flavor and enhance the overall appeal of the dish.
- Customize Your Cheese Blend: Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own signature cheese blend for the sauce. Try mixing sharp cheddar with Gruyère, fontina, or smoked gouda for a unique and delicious twist on traditional mac and cheese.
- Veggie Medley: Mix things up by adding a variety of vegetables to your Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese. In addition to broccoli, consider incorporating diced bell peppers, spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes for added color, texture, and nutrition.
- Crunchy Topping Options: Get creative with your toppings by adding a crunchy element to your mac and cheese. Crushed potato chips, toasted breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions make excellent additions that provide contrast to the creamy texture of the dish.
- Bake for a Golden Crust: For an extra indulgent twist, transfer the assembled mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown on top. This creates a crispy crust that adds an irresistible crunch to each bite.
With these creative tips and variations, you can take your Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese to new heights and customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get adventurous with your toppings and add-ins, one thing is certain – this comforting dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your culinary creativity, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of homemade mac and cheese with a delightful broccoli twist.
