Name: Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 3 bowls
Cuisine: American

These Carbs Don't Count Verified

May 13, 2025

14 Ingredients

MEDIUM

This Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese is the ultimate cozy fall comfort food. Tender pasta and crisp-tender broccoli are coated in a silky, cheddar-loaded béchamel sauce enriched with garlic and mozzarella. The sharpness of the cheddar is balanced by creamy mozzarella, and a touch of mustard powder adds subtle warmth and complexity. Optionally, you can bake it to perfection for a golden top. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll crave again and again.

From the Cook

1/4

Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese

These Carbs Don't Count Verified

Ingredients

bowls

WarningMilk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until almost al dente.

A few minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Cook together until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender.

Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

Add flour and stir to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.

Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until sauce thickens.

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder.

Stir in cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella until melted and smooth.

Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce along with a splash of pasta water. Stir until the sauce is creamy and evenly coats the pasta.

Mix in the remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella for extra cheesiness. Optional: transfer to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until golden on top.

Bite Tutorial

Smart Nutrition

My Calorie Intake

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Blanch Broccoli Perfectly 🥦
Briefly blanch broccoli florets in salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding to the mac & cheese to ensure crisp-tender texture and vibrant green color.
Cheese Melting Technique 🧀
Remove the béchamel sauce from direct heat before adding cheese to prevent breaking and ensure a smooth, silky texture.
Reserved Pasta Water Magic 💧
Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency - the starchy water helps bind the sauce and create a more creamy texture.
Layered Cheese Flavor Bomb 🔥
Combine sharp cheddar for bold flavor with creamy mozzarella for smooth texture, and add a pinch of mustard powder to enhance the cheese's depth.
Golden Crispy Top Hack 🌟
For a gorgeous golden crust, sprinkle extra shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top before briefly broiling for 2-3 minutes.

Intelligent Tags

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About the Cook

These Carbs Don't Count

Hi! I’m Angela and if you’re reading this you probably love carbs & pasta and you’ve come to the right place. I’m so excited to share delicious recipes, cooking tips, gluten free life & restaurant recs! Welcome carbies and subscribe for more content! Link above :)