Sometimes, weeknights call for comfort, speed, and a little indulgence—and nothing hits the spot quite like a creamy bowl of Broccoli Mac and Cheese. This recipe combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce and fresh broccoli for a balance of comfort and nutrition. It’s the ultimate weeknight win: simple to prepare, satisfying to eat, and perfect for both kids and adults who crave a cozy, flavorful meal.

Inspired by classic mac and cheese, this version adds fresh broccoli for a nutritious twist without compromising the creamy, cheesy goodness everyone loves. It’s an approachable dish that turns a simple dinner into a family favorite, delivering warmth and comfort in every bite. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners, leftovers, or meal prep, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Why This Broccoli Mac and Cheese Is a Weeknight Winner

The creamy cheese sauce is the heart of this dish, coating every piece of pasta and tender broccoli in indulgent flavor. The broccoli adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture, brightening the dish and giving it a nutritional boost. The result is comfort food that doesn’t feel heavy or overwhelming, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

It’s also versatile—swap in different cheeses, add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for crunch, or toss in cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein. No matter the variation, this mac and cheese maintains its creamy, dreamy, weeknight-perfect appeal.

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Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

• 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni or other pasta of choice

• 2 cups (150 g) broccoli florets, steamed

• 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter

• 2 tablespoons (30 g) all-purpose flour

• 2 cups (480 ml) milk

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream

• 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) salt

• 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) garlic powder

• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon (1 g) smoked paprika for garnish

• Optional: 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs for a crispy topping

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preparing the pasta and broccoli, which form the base of this comforting dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your pasta of choice. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the broccoli. Cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets and steam them just until tender yet still bright green. Overcooking broccoli can make it mushy and dull its vibrant color, so aim for a crisp-tender texture that will provide a fresh contrast to the creamy cheese sauce.

Next, prepare the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. This step removes the raw flour taste and serves as the thickening base for your sauce. Whisking constantly prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth, velvety consistency.

Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Simmering allows the cream to blend with the roux and creates a rich, luscious texture that will coat the pasta and broccoli evenly.

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. These cheeses contribute both flavor and creaminess—the sharpness of cheddar pairs beautifully with the nutty notes of Parmesan. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed to ensure a balanced, savory flavor. Optional additions like a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of mustard powder can add depth and a subtle warmth to the sauce.

Add the cooked pasta and steamed broccoli to the sauce, gently folding them in so that everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to break the pasta or crush the broccoli; gentle folding ensures the ingredients remain intact while being enveloped in the creamy sauce. This creates a cohesive, comforting dish where each bite combines tender pasta, crisp-tender broccoli, and smooth, cheesy sauce.

For an optional baked finish, transfer the creamy pasta and broccoli mixture to a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for added texture. Place under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching closely until the top becomes golden and crispy. This step adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy interior and elevates the dish for special occasions or a more decadent presentation.

Serve immediately while hot, garnished with a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired. The paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing and flavorful. This creamy broccoli mac and cheese works perfectly as a hearty weeknight dinner, a side for roasted meats, or a comforting vegetarian main course.

For best results, use freshly grated cheeses and freshly steamed broccoli. Avoid overcooking either the pasta or broccoli, as they will continue to soften slightly when added to the sauce or baked. This dish is versatile, allowing you to incorporate other vegetables like peas, spinach, or roasted cauliflower for variety, or even mix in cooked bacon or caramelized onions for extra richness.

The combination of tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a warm, comforting dish with a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

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Tips for Perfect Broccoli Mac and Cheese

• Cheese blend: Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella or Gruyère for a richer, creamier flavor.

• Avoid overcooking pasta: Cook pasta slightly firm (al dente) to prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.

• Crispy topping: Toss breadcrumbs with a little butter before sprinkling for a golden, crunchy topping.

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Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve this mac and cheese as a standalone weeknight dinner or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For added protein, stir in cooked chicken, ham, or bacon. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.

For a lighter version, use low-fat milk instead of cream, and reduce cheese slightly. This recipe is highly adaptable, maintaining its creamy comfort while accommodating dietary preferences.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Broccoli Mac & Cheese is perfect for making ahead, which can save you time on busy weeknights. You can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the pasta and sauce together on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce stays smooth and creamy. If the sauce has thickened during storage, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency. Making components ahead of time allows for a quick, comforting meal without compromising flavor or texture.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient option, but it’s important to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the pasta and cheese sauce. Excess water from the broccoli can make the cheese sauce runny, affecting the final texture of the dish. To avoid this, you can thaw the broccoli in the microwave, steam it briefly, or run it under warm water and pat it dry with paper towels. Properly prepared broccoli blends seamlessly with the pasta and sauce, adding both color and nutrition without diluting the flavor.

3. Can I make it spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy a little heat in your mac & cheese, there are several ways to add it. Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a small amount of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce while cooking. These additions provide a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy, cheesy flavor that makes this dish so comforting. You can adjust the spice level gradually to suit your taste or leave it mild for kids or anyone sensitive to heat.

4. Can I use different pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, this recipe is very versatile and works well with a variety of pasta shapes. Penne, shells, rotini, or cavatappi are all excellent alternatives and will hold the sauce nicely. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions so the pasta is al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce. Choosing a different shape can also make the dish more visually appealing or fun for family meals, while still delivering the creamy, cheesy flavor everyone loves.

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Final Thoughts

Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition, making it an ideal weeknight win. Its rich, cheesy sauce, tender pasta, and fresh broccoli provide a dish that’s indulgent yet balanced, satisfying cravings without feeling overly heavy.

This recipe is approachable for home cooks of any skill level, quick enough for busy evenings, and versatile enough to customize with extra vegetables, proteins, or spices. The addition of broccoli not only adds nutrition but also brightens the flavor and color, turning a classic comfort food into a slightly healthier, yet equally indulgent, option.

Whether served as a simple family dinner, a cozy meal for one, or a dish to share with friends, this Broccoli Mac and Cheese brings warmth, flavor, and that irresistible creamy texture that everyone loves. Quick to make and endlessly comforting, it’s destined to become a weeknight favorite.

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