Description
If you’re searching for a comforting dish that combines nutrition with flavor, look no further than broccoli mac and cheese. This delightful recipe brings together tender pasta and vibrant green broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over, this dish will definitely make an impression. In just a few simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with healthy ingredients.
Ingredients
Pasta
For this recipe, you’ll need 2 cups of elbow macaroni. The small shape of the pasta holds onto the cheesy sauce wonderfully. You can substitute it with any other pasta shape you prefer.
Broccoli
Use 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Fresh broccoli adds both color and crunch to your dish while providing essential vitamins and minerals. Make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Cheddar Cheese
You will require 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This cheese provides the signature flavor for your mac and cheese. Opt for freshly grated cheese if possible for the best melt.
Milk
Include 2 cups of whole milk. The milk creates a creamy base for the cheese sauce. You can substitute with low-fat milk if desired, but whole milk will provide a richer taste.
Butter
You’ll need 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Butter adds richness to the sauce while helping to create a smooth texture when combined with flour.
Flour
Use ¼ cup of all-purpose flour as a thickening agent in the cheese sauce. It helps achieve that creamy consistency that makes mac and cheese so comforting.
Garlic Powder
Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for added flavor. This ingredient gives depth to the dish without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
Salt & Pepper
Season with salt and pepper to taste. These basic seasonings enhance all the flavors in your dish, making each bite more enjoyable.