Healthy One Pot Broccoli Mac & Cheese
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese – the Healthy One Pot Broccoli Mac & Cheese! This dish offers a comforting blend of cheesy goodness with nutritious broccoli, all cooked in one pot for ultimate convenience. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or planning a family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Originating from the heart of American comfort food, this healthier version packs a powerful punch of flavor while sneaking in some extra veggies. The creamy texture combined with the vibrant green of the broccoli makes this dish both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Mac & Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (200g)
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 1/2 cups low-fat milk (600ml)
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (100g)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
- 2 tablespoons butter (30g)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (15g)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir for about 1 minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Healthy One Pot Broccoli Mac & Cheese!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or nutmeg to the cheese sauce.
- To make it gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend.
- This dish reheats well, but add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
Conclusion
Dive into the world of creamy, cheesy goodness with this Healthy One Pot Broccoli Mac & Cheese. It’s a quick, easy, and nutritious dish that the whole family will love. Get creative with your toppings or pair it with a side salad for a well-rounded meal. Don’t hesitate to share your experience with us and spread the joy of cooking!