Description
A comforting and healthier take on classic mac and cheese featuring tender elbow macaroni, steamed broccoli florets, and a creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar and gruyere cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that’s hearty and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Steam Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. If possible, place broccoli florets in a steamer basket on top of the pasta pot during the last 1-2 minutes to steam. Drain pasta and blanch the broccoli in cold water to stop cooking and keep vibrant green.
- Make Roux: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture is combined and turns golden, about 2 minutes, forming a roux.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the 2% milk to the roux. Add Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in shredded cheddar and gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Broccoli: Fold cooked pasta and broccoli into the cheese sauce until everything is coated evenly.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot and creamy for best taste and texture.
Notes
- This healthier version of mac and cheese incorporates broccoli for added nutrition and a fresh flavor.
- Steaming broccoli on top of pasta pot saves time and keeps veggies crisp yet tender.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and creamy sauce texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste preference.
- Serve as a comforting main dish for busy weeknights.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 607 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 439 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
