Get the recipe: Kid-Requested Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese (made in 20 Minutes!)
Looking for an easy twenty-minute dinner that is also made in one pot? And that your kids will love? Then, I've got you! This super cheesy (and easy) mac and cheese has been an absolute heavy hitter in our house over the last couple of months - cue epic cheese pulls.
Ingredients
- 16 oz shaped pasta
- 2-3 cups broccoli, cut into small florets
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1/8 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/8 tsp pepper (optional)
- 2 cups milk
- 8 oz block of cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add pasta, and cook according to the directions on the box for 'al dente'. When you have 2 minutes left on your timer, add in the broccoli. Drain pasta and broccoli.
- In the same pot, over medium heat, add in the butter and let melt. Add in the flour and spices and whisk until you have a paste (roux).
- Add in the milk, whisk and let cook for 2 minutes or until thickened to a heavy cream consistency. Turn off the burner.
- Add in the cheese, one handful at a time, stirring until melted. Continue until you have added in all of the cheese and it is smooth.
- Add in the pasta and broccoli and gently stir until combined.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Age: can be served to 6+ months with only a small amount of sauce added. Best for 1+ years.
Storage: store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Can also be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating add in more milk and stir until the cheese is smooth.
Note on Broccoli: we prefer fresh broccoli in this recipe, but frozen will also work. You will want to add it to the boiling pasta water 4 minutes before the timer is up.
Variations: This easy broccoli mac and cheese is also incredibly versatile! Here are some of our favorite variations and additions.
- Peas
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Cooked chicken
- Bacon
- Shelled Edamame
- Quartered cherry tomatoes
- Mozzarella or parmesan cheese
- Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese
- Top with green onions or crispy panko breadcrumbs
- Shredding your own cheese is preferred, as it melts better than pre-shredded.
- Feel free to use sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger cheese flavor more similar to traditional mac and cheese or go with a mild cheddar for a softer flavor.
- To make meal prep even quicker, you can go with pre-cut broccoli florets.
- Win over even the pickiest of toddlers and older kids by letting them choose from a couple toppings they can sprinkle over their bowl, such as bacon crumbles, everything bagel seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, or grated parmesan cheese.
Did you make this recipe?
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