Title: Homey Goodness: Homemade Mac N Cheese & Broccoli
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Introduction
Embrace the comfort of home with this deliciously cheesy and hearty bowl of Mac N Cheese & Broccoli. This is a fail-proof backup meal that only requires ingredients from your pantry and is fast enough to whip on a weeknight.
Why Make This Recipe
As a classic dish in American households, it incorporates the rich flavor of different cheeses with the healthy crunch of broccoli. A perfect way to sneak veggies into your kid’s meals and also an excellent comforting dish for any party or get-together.
How to Make Homemade Mac N Cheese & Broccoli
Ingredients:
1. 8 oz elbow macaroni
2. 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
3. 2 tbsp unsalted butter
4. 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
5. 2 cups whole milk
6. 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
7. 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
8. Salt and pepper to taste
9. 1/2 tsp garlic powder
10. 1/2 tsp mustard powder
Directions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, add the chopped broccoli in the last 2 minutes and then drain.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until smooth. Then add milk slowly while whisking until the mixture thickens.
3. Stir in the grated cheddar and Parmesan until they melt. Adjust the taste with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder, if using.
4. Finally, combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the cheese sauce until they’re coated evenly.
How to Serve Homemade Mac N Cheese & Broccoli
Serve this warm with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top, if desired. Complete the meal with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
How to Store Homemade Mac N Cheese & Broccoli
To store, simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in a microwave or warm it up on a stove with a splash of milk to bring back its creaminess.
Tips to Make Homemade Mac N Cheese & Broccoli
To make your mac n cheese richer you could add a touch of cream cheese. If you opt for a spicy edge, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a few drops of tabasco sauce. Always cook your pasta al dente, as it will keep cooking when you mix it with the sauce.
Variation
If you desire a different taste, you could swap the broccoli for cauliflower or include crispy bacon for a non-vegetarian twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can. You could use fusilli, penne or any other pastas.
2. Can I substitute the milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with non-dairy milks like almond or soy.
3. Can I add in other vegetables?
Yes. Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables like peas, carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.