- VE
These Carbs Don't Count
May 13, 2025
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.
14 Ingredients
Instructions
1
|
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until almost al dente.
2
|
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.
3
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Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
4
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In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
5
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Add flour and stir to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
6
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Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until sauce thickens.
7
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Season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder.
8
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Stir in cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella until melted and smooth.
9
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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.
10
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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.
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.
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