One Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese
All made in one pot and with only 5 ingredients, this Broccoli Mac n Cheese is the perfect weeknight dinner with a balance of healthy and tasty ingredients!
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 5 ½ cups milk
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni (1 package)
- 1 cup riced cauliflower (optional)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
Instructions
- Place the milk in a large pot and bring to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent burning.5 ½ cups milk
- While the milk is heating, microwave the broccoli florets for about 2 minutes on high (to soften fresh florets or thaw frozen florets).
- Stir in the macaroni and riced cauliflower, then bring back to a boil.16 ounces elbow macaroni, 1 cup riced cauliflower
- Cook about 5 minutes, stirring very frequently.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook another 4-6 minutes, until the pasta is done. There will still be some liquid in the pot.2 cups broccoli florets
- Remove from the heat. Add the cheese and mix until completely melted.3 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
Notes
- You can use any shape of pasta that you prefer.
- Be careful to not overcook the pasta as overcooked pasta can easily become mushy when you stir in the cheese.
- For a creamier sauce, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of lower-fat options. This adds richness to the mac and cheese.
- If the mac and cheese is too thick, place the pot back over low heat, add some additional milk, and stir to incorporate. Repeat if necessary.
- This is a rather basic recipe, but there are so many things you can do to customize it! Here are some add-ins you can try:
- Cooked bacon
- Caramelized onions
- Roasted garlic
- Thyme, rosemary, or parsley
- Nutmeg
- Dijon mustard
- Red pepper flakes
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Cooked mushrooms or spinach
- Bread crumbs or crushed butter crackers (sprinkle on top)
Nutrition
Calories: 621kcal | Carbohydrates: 72g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 476mg | Potassium: 732mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 1179IU | Vitamin C: 40mg | Calcium: 708mg | Iron: 1mg
