Description
A creamy and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese, perfect for any occasion. This one-pot dish is quick to make and kid-friendly, with options to customize with your favorite proteins.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces Pipe Rigate pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded smoked gouda
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup steamed fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream while whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the dry mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Lower the heat and add the shredded cheeses. Stir until fully melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce. Gently stir until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle a little more shredded cheese on top before serving.
- You can substitute whole milk for heavy whipping cream for a lighter version.
- Add seared chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits for a protein-packed meal.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Use lactose-free cheese and cream for a dairy-free option.
- For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and parmesan before broiling.
- Experiment with spinach or roasted cauliflower instead of broccoli.
- Try Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar for a more complex flavor.
- Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for added aroma.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg