Who knew a humble dish could ignite such a love affair? Broccoli and cheese – a combination that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
My first encounter with this duo was at a family gathering, where the cheesy aroma wove through the air like an irresistible siren’s call, drawing everyone to the table. It’s not just about the ingredients but the memories they create.
Ready to dive into the comforting chaos of flavors? Let’s go!
Steps
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, as per package instructions. Steam broccoli over the pasta pot for 1-2 minutes if possible, then drain pasta and blanch broccoli.
- In a separate saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter and add flour to create a roux. Mix the flour and butter until fully combined and golden, taking about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk, then add Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and let simmer while whisking occasionally until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Fold in the cooked pasta and broccoli, mixing well to combine.
- Serve the broccoli mac and cheese immediately for the best flavor and texture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of short cut pasta (such as elbow, mini shells, or cavatappi)
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar and gruyere recommended)
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 3 cups of milk
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups of small broccoli florets
Nutritional Values
Calories: 607kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 439mg | Potassium: 562mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 1316IU | Vitamin C: 61mg | Calcium: 723mg | Iron: 2mg
FAQ
- How long does broccoli mac and cheese stay fresh?
- Broccoli mac and cheese can be enjoyed for up to 4-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator, but it’s best consumed on the day it’s made for optimal texture and taste.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with broccoli mac and cheese?
- Although this dish can stand alone as a complete meal due to its vegetable content, it pairs well with a Brussels sprout salad or oven-roasted carrots for added variety.
- Is it possible to freeze leftover broccoli mac and cheese?
- Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta may absorb excess moisture and become soggy once thawed. It’s preferable to enjoy the dish within a few days or repurpose leftovers into mac and cheese bites.
- Can I substitute any ingredients in the recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute other types of shredded cheese if desired. Dairy-free milk alternatives like unsweetened almond milk can replace milk, and olive oil can be used instead of butter. For a gluten-free version, opt for almond flour or a gluten-free flour mix and use gluten-free pasta.
Tips
- Choose short cut pasta such as elbow macaroni or mini shells to ensure each piece is well-coated with the cheese sauce.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, as this will prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce and broccoli.
- Opt for cheese blocks instead of pre-shredded cheese to achieve a smoother and meltier consistency in your sauce.
- Warm the milk before adding it to the roux to expedite the sauce-making process and avoid a lumpy texture.
Equipment
- Cheese Grater – If you are buying blocks of cheese to shred yourself for better melting and consistency, a good quality cheese grater is essential.
- Saucepan – A large saucepan is necessary for making the roux and cheese sauce.
- Whisk – Useful for combining ingredients smoothly when making the roux and cheese sauce.
- Steamer Basket – If you plan to steam broccoli on top of the pasta pot, a steamer basket will be helpful.
- Airtight Storage Containers – For storing leftovers to keep them fresh for up to 4-5 days.
