How to Make the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni
American · Easy · 15 min · 4 servings
This homemade broccoli cheddar macaroni is ready in 15 minutes and puts boxed mac and cheese to shame. Creamy sharp cheddar sauce with tender broccoli makes this a quick crowd-pleasing dinner the whole family will love.
Why this recipe works
This Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 490 calories with 20g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 300 g elbow macaroni
- 2 cups small broccoli florets
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.75 cup whole milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Boil macaroni according to package directions, adding broccoli florets in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot over low heat, melt butter and add milk. Slowly stir in shredded cheddar until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Season
Add garlic powder, cooked pasta, and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Serve
Divide into bowls and serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- sharp cheddar → gruyere or monterey jack for a milder flavor
- broccoli → frozen peas or spinach
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Adding cheese to boiling milk which causes the sauce to become grainy
- Using pre-shredded cheese which contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 490 calories, 20g protein, 60g carbs, 19g fat, 4g fiber.
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