Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Mac
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Mac is the ultimate comfort food! Velvety cheese sauce, tender pasta, and fresh broccoli come together for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded for the best melt and flavor
- 1 cup milk whole milk works best for creaminess
- 2 tbsp butter to create the roux and add richness
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour thickens the cheese sauce perfectly
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder for a gentle garlic undertone
- 0.5 tsp onion powder adds savory warmth
- Salt and pepper to taste, essential seasoning to balance the flavors
- Turkey bacon cooked and crumbled (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce Base
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s bubbling and lightly golden but not browned.
Step 3: Add Milk and Seasonings
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
- Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli directly into the cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together until the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated in that luscious cheddar goodness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, sprinkle crumbled cooked turkey bacon on top just before serving. Serve immediately, perhaps alongside Easy Garlic Bread for the perfect meal pairing.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Strainer or colander
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli in spring and summer for the brightest flavor, frozen works well in colder months.
- Try swapping sharp cheddar for smoked cheddar or a Monterey Jack blend for a different cheesy twist.
- Add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a subtle kick of heat.