Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole

broccoli cheese pasta bake

Picture a dish that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of melted cheese and the earthy scent of broccoli.

This Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole is as easy to make as it’s delightful to enjoy, offering a cozy, indulgent experience that’s hard to resist.

With simple ingredients transforming into a golden, bubbly masterpiece, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction.

Let’s bring this delicious casserole to life.

Kitchen Tools Required

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 large saucepan
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 baking dish
  • 1 mixing spoon
  • 1 oven

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole, follow this timeline:

  1. Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
    • Read through the entire recipe and gather all ingredients and equipment needed.
  2. Prep Work (15 minutes)
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Measure out all ingredients.
    • Start cooking the macaroni according to package instructions.
    • While the macaroni is cooking, steam the broccoli until tender.
  3. Cooking (25 minutes)
    • Drain the cooked macaroni and set aside.
    • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened.
    • Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
    • In a large bowl, combine the macaroni, broccoli, and cheese sauce.
    • Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
    • Top with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  4. Resting (5 minutes)
    • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.

Recipe Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.

Steam the broccoli until tender and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.

Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened.

Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.

Combine the macaroni, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large bowl.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.

Top with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Tips

  • Garlic Bread: A classic side to complement the cheesiness of the casserole with a crispy, aromatic touch.
  • Caesar Salad: Offers a revitalizing and crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Add a colorful and nutritious element to the meal, balancing the richness of the dish.
  • Tomato Soup: Provides a warm and hearty pairing, enhancing the comfort food vibe.
  • Fruit Salad: A light and sweet option to cleanse the palate after enjoying the savory main dish.

Storage

To store Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole, cool completely.

Then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing

To freeze Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole, cool completely.

Then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through.

Stir occasionally for even warmth.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food.

By incorporating broccoli, you add a nutritious element to the rich and creamy dish.

The preparation and cooking process is straightforward, making it an excellent option for a family meal or casual gathering.

With the combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, the casserole offers a satisfying flavor profile.

For those looking to enhance the dish further, a blend of cheeses such as Gruyere or mozzarella can be used, and a hint of nutmeg can be added to the cheese sauce for a touch of depth.

The option to broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking provides a crispy topping that many will enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Pasta for Elbow Macaroni?

You can substitute whole wheat pasta for elbow macaroni. Maintain the cooking time indicated on the pasta package to guarantee ideal texture. Whole wheat pasta offers a nuttier flavor and higher fiber content, enhancing the dish’s nutritional value.

What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crush some crackers or cornflakes as a substitute. You can also use panko for a lighter texture or ground nuts for a nutty flavor. Adjust quantities to match the original recipe.

Is There a Gluten-Free Version of This Recipe?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and substituting gluten-free all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs. Confirm all other ingredients, like cheese, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination and maintain dietary requirements.

How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian-Friendly?

You’ve already got a vegetarian dish! Just make certain all your ingredients, like cheese, are vegetarian-certified. If desired, add more veggies such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutritional value and flavor complexity. Enjoy your meal!

Can I Add Protein Like Chicken or Bacon to the Casserole?

You can definitely add protein like chicken or bacon. Cook the chicken until fully done or crisp the bacon, then mix with the macaroni before baking. Make certain the meat is evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.

broccoli cheese pasta bake

Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 large saucepan
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Baking dish
  • 1 Mixing spoon
  • 1 Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounce elbow macaroni
  • 2 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 2 cup milk
  • 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
  • Steam the broccoli until tender and set aside.
  • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened.
  • Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
  • Combine the macaroni, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large bowl.
  • Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
  • Top with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, consider using a mixture of cheeses such as Gruyere or mozzarella along with the cheddar. Additionally, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for a subtle depth of flavor. If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking.
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