Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Prepare to elevate your regular mac and cheese with this delightful stove top broccoli mac and cheese recipe. This dish brings in a nutritious twist with the addition of broccoli, while the rich, creamy cheese sauce assures that comfort food factor is not compromised. Quick to prepare, it makes for an ideal meal on busy days or a satisfying side on special occasions.

Photos of Stove Top Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe like elbow macaroni, butter, flour, and milk are pantry staples in many households. The key ingredients to be aware of are cream cheese, dijon mustard, and sharp cheddar cheese, which may not be readily available at home but can be easily found in any supermarket. The broccoli florets can be fresh or frozen, depending on your preference and availability.

Ingredients for Stove Top Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Elbow macaroni: This constitutes the 'mac' in your mac and cheese. It's perfect for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce.

Broccoli florets: These add a nutritious twist to the dish, and their slight crunch and flavor complement the mac and cheese beautifully.

Butter: This forms the base for your roux, which thickens the cheese sauce.

Flour: Combined with butter, this thickens the sauce.

Garlic powder: Gives a subtle hint of garlic, which works amazingly with cheese.

Milk: Helps in creating a smooth and creamy sauce.

Cream cheese: Adds an extra layer of creaminess to the dish.

Dijon Mustard: Its tanginess cuts through the richness of the cheese, balancing the flavors.

Sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that brings in that irresistible cheesy goodness.

One reader, Ferdinand Daniel says:

This stove top broccoli mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer! The creamy cheese sauce perfectly complements the tender broccoli and al dente macaroni. It's a quick and easy dish that's both comforting and nutritious. I highly recommend trying it out for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ferdinand Daniel

Key Techniques for Making Stovetop Broccoli Mac and Cheese

How to cook pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions and then drain it well.

How to make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a pot, add flour and garlic powder, then gradually whisk in the milk. Add cream cheese and mustard, and cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.

How to incorporate the pasta and broccoli: Toss the drained pasta and broccoli into the pot with the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Adjust the consistency of the sauce with pasta water or milk if needed.

How To Make Stove Top Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Turn your mac and cheese healthier and mintier by adding broccoli florets. Add a generous amount of milk and cheese to make it creamier.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozdry elbow macaroni
salt
4cupsbroccoli floretscooked then finely chopped
3 ½tbspbutter
3 ½tbspflour
¼tspgarlic powder
1 ¾cupsmilk
4oz.cream cheesediced into small cubes
2tspdijon mustardto taste
8ozsharp cheddar cheeseshredded

Instructions

Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to directions on the package. Drain pasta well.
While macaroni is cooking, melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
Add in flour and garlic powder and cook, whisking constantly for 2 minutes.
Slowly and gradually, pour in milk while whisking.
Add in cream cheese and mustard and cook, whisking constantly until cream cheese has melted and mixture has thickened well.
Remove from heat then add in cheese and stir briskly to melt cheese.
Pour drained pasta and drained broccoli into the pan with the sauce and toss everything to evenly coat, while seasoning with salt to taste.
Thin sauce with a little pasta water or milk if desired. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 736.46kcal
Fat: 43.60g
Saturated Fat: 25.19g
Trans Fat: 1.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.89g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.29g
Carbohydrates: 58.43g
Fiber: 2.02g
Sugar: 14.51g
Protein: 29.06g
Cholesterol: 126.14mg
Sodium: 1026.26mg
Calcium: 649.51mg
Potassium: 725.50mg
Iron: 1.63mg
Vitamin A: 496.97µg
Vitamin C: 52.98mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Stovetop Broccoli Mac and Cheese

To ensure your broccoli retains its vibrant green color and crisp texture, blanch it in boiling water for a minute before adding it to the mac and cheese. This quick cooking method will also help to remove any bitterness from the broccoli.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Stovetop Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Look for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.

Batch cooking: Make larger portions and freeze leftovers for quick and convenient meals on busy days.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and slow cookers to simplify meal preparation.

Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking utensils.

Substitute Ingredients For Stove Top Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

dry elbow macaroni - Substitute with whole wheat elbow macaroni: Whole wheat elbow macaroni can be used as a healthier alternative, providing more fiber and nutrients.
broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower can be used as a substitute for broccoli, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, adding a different flavor profile to the dish.
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: Gluten-free flour can be used for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar savory flavor to the dish.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative for those with lactose intolerance or dietary preferences.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese, providing a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
dijon mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Yellow mustard can be used as a milder alternative to Dijon mustard.
sharp cheddar cheese - Substitute with smoked gouda cheese: Smoked gouda cheese can provide a different flavor profile, adding a smoky and rich taste to the dish.

Presentation Tips for a Delightful Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Elevate the plating: Present the mac and cheese in a shallow bowl, ensuring the vibrant colors of the broccoli and the golden hue of the cheese sauce are prominently displayed.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of finely chopped chives over the mac and cheese to add a pop of color and a subtle hint of onion flavor.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a light dusting of toasted breadcrumbs over the top to provide a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the broccoli florets and macaroni in an organized and visually appealing manner, ensuring each component is showcased elegantly.
Utilize contrasting colors: Consider serving the mac and cheese in a white or light-colored dish to make the vibrant green of the broccoli and the rich cheese sauce stand out.
Highlight the creaminess: Ensure the cheese sauce is generously coating the macaroni and broccoli, creating a luscious and inviting presentation.
Consider individual servings: For a more refined presentation, serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets, adding a touch of sophistication to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Pot: A large, deep container used for cooking food on the stove top.
Whisk: A utensil used for mixing ingredients together and incorporating air into the mixture.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with holes in it used for draining foods such as pasta or rinsing vegetables.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for cooking sauces, vegetables, or other liquids.
Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil with a long handle and a broad head, used for stirring, mixing, and serving food.
Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
Cooking pot: A large, deep container with a lid, used for cooking soups, stews, and boiling pasta or vegetables.
Strainer: A kitchen tool with a perforated surface used for separating liquids from solids or for rinsing foods.
Grater: A kitchen tool with a rough surface used for shredding or grating cheese, vegetables, or other foods.
Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting and preparing food.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients during food preparation.
Stove: A cooking appliance used for applying heat to the bottom of pots and pans for cooking.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Stovetop Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Let the broccoli mac and cheese cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the broccoli mac and cheese:
- Divide the cooled dish into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen mac and cheese will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated broccoli mac and cheese, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
For frozen mac and cheese, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also reheat it directly from frozen, but it may take longer and require more frequent stirring to ensure even heating.
If the reheated mac and cheese appears dry or grainy, stir in a little milk or cream to help revive the texture and creaminess.

How to Reheat Leftover Stovetop Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, and add a splash of milk or cream to help maintain the creamy texture. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of milk or cream. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating. If the sauce appears too thick, add more liquid as needed.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the mac and cheese on the stovetop. Transfer the leftovers to a saucepan and add a splash of milk or cream. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired temperature. If the sauce becomes too thick, add more liquid gradually until you achieve the perfect consistency.
For a crispy twist, transform your leftover mac and cheese into fritters. Scoop the cold mac and cheese into small patties, and coat them in breadcrumbs or panko. Fry the patties in a pan with a bit of oil until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Serve the fritters with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Create a delicious breakfast by combining leftover mac and cheese with scrambled eggs. Reheat the mac and cheese in a pan over medium heat, and then pour in beaten eggs. Stir the mixture constantly until the eggs are cooked through and well-combined with the mac and cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices for a tasty and satisfying morning meal.

Interesting Trivia About Broccoli Mac and Cheese

The stove top broccoli mac and cheese recipe is a great way to incorporate vegetables into a classic comfort food dish. Broccoli is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this mac and cheese recipe a healthier option compared to traditional versions.

Is Making Stovetop Broccoli Mac and Cheese Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this stove top broccoli mac and cheese recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the dish can be made in large quantities, making it suitable for a family meal. The combination of broccoli and cheese provides a good balance of nutrition and flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-15, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is Stovetop Broccoli Mac and Cheese Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for stove top broccoli mac and cheese has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes broccoli, a nutrient-dense vegetable high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The dish also incorporates some protein from the cheese and milk. However, the recipe relies heavily on processed ingredients like macaroni, butter, flour, and cream cheese, which can be high in refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and sodium.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of butter and cream cheese, or replace them with healthier alternatives like olive oil and Greek yogurt
Increase the proportion of broccoli to pasta for a more balanced meal
Use low-fat milk and cheese to reduce the overall fat content
Add additional vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient profile
Experiment with herbs and spices to enhance flavor without relying on excessive salt or fat

By incorporating these changes, you can transform this mac and cheese into a more well-rounded and nutritious meal that still satisfies your comfort food cravings. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying this dish as part of a balanced diet can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

Editor's Opinion on This Stovetop Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

This stove top broccoli mac and cheese recipe is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli. The creamy sauce, made with a blend of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and a hint of Dijon mustard, coats the tender elbow macaroni and vibrant broccoli florets perfectly. The addition of garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor to the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Enhance Your Stove Top Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey glaze for a delightful side dish.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: Assorted vegetables grilled to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze for a flavorful side dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy chicken alfredo recipe is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It's the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This roasted vegetable quinoa salad is a healthy and flavorful dish that's perfect for lunch or dinner. It's packed with colorful roasted vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing.

Berry Cobbler: This berry cobbler recipe is a delicious dessert that's perfect for showcasing fresh summer berries. The sweet and juicy berries are topped with a buttery, golden-brown crust for the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture of the mousse will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Why trust this Stove Top Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist. The combination of creamy cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. The use of garlic powder and dijon mustard adds depth of flavor, while the addition of cream cheese gives the dish a rich and creamy texture. The step-by-step instructions ensure that the dish turns out perfectly every time, making it a reliable and trustworthy recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty and wholesome meal.

Want to share your own twist on this Stove Top Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and let us know how you make this classic dish!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or shells.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli?

Absolutely! You can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before adding it to the recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this ahead of time. Simply prepare the mac and cheese as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little extra milk to loosen up the sauce if needed.

Can I add other vegetables to the mac and cheese?

Of course! You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as peas, spinach, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cook or blanch the vegetables before adding them to the mac and cheese.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. You can try using Gruyere, gouda, or a combination of your favorite cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.