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Baked Mac and Cheese with Broccoli Recipe

Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni and cheese with tender broccoli and a golden, bubbly topping. An easy family-friendly dinner or comforting side dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Mac and Cheese
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Method
 

  1. Prepare the broccoli: Wash the broccoli and cut it into small florets. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the broccoli for about 2–3 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Make the roux: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until smooth.
  4. Add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Season the sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Combine everything: Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated.
  8. Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish. Transfer the macaroni and broccoli mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
  9. Add the topping: Combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture and additional cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  10. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
  11. Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Cook the macaroni only until al dente because it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Do not overcook the broccoli. It should remain slightly firm before baking.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than many pre-shredded cheeses.
  • For a creamier result, add a small splash of milk to the cheese sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Breadcrumbs are optional, but they add a delicious crispy texture to the topping.
  • You can substitute frozen broccoli. Thaw and drain it well before using.