Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Nowadays everyone is concerned about their health. That is why baked broccoli mac and cheese is a healthier version of mac and cheese.

Broccoli is a good source of antioxidants which is why many people want to add it to their food.

Our baked broccoli mac and cheese recipe is for people who are on a healthy diet.

The best thing about this recipe is that children love it, it is easy to prepare and it does not require much time in the kitchen.

Stay with us so you can enjoy the best flavors with this Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe.

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Why Do I Love Baked Broccoli Mac And Cheese?

I always wanted to make something that is yummy but nutritious too. My kids never liked broccoli but this recipe works magic for me. Now, they enjoy baked broccoli mac and cheese. The recipe is very cheesy and creamy and enhances the taste. Whenever I am on a keto and crave mac and cheese I instantly make baked broccoli mac and cheese.

Is It Better To Bake Mac And Cheese Covered Or Leave It Uncovered?

It doesn’t matter whether you bake mac and cheese covered or uncovered. I noticed that when we bake mac and cheese covered it can become moist. I like to enjoy a crispy top of my mac and cheese that is why I let it uncovered. It totally depends on your personal preference.

Why Is My Baked Mac And Cheese Not Creamy?

Sometimes, baked broccoli mac and cheese cannot be as creamy as you thought and there are many reasons for it. If you add less cream cheese and more portions of pasta it can become less creamy. Overbaking can also cause cake drying of creamy sauce from your baked broccoli mac and cheese. However, if you follow the exact portion in our recipe your mac and cheese will be super creamy.

Is It Better To Cook Mac And Cheese In Milk Or Water?

If you cook your macaroni in milk it will get more creamy, however, if you boil it in water you can control the consistency of your mac and cheese. It depends on what consistency you prefer in your mac and cheese. It is ideal to use milk in your baked broccoli mac and cheese.

How To Serve Baked Broccoli Mac And Cheese?

There are many ways to serve baked broccoli mac and cheese. However, I usually equally divide the pasta into bowls. You can also serve it with bread and coleslaw to make it more fulfilling. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. To add crispness on top I add breadcrumbs on top.

Tips:

Here are a few tips that I recommend for everyone to cook baked broccoli mac and cheese. 

• Cook the pasta till Al Dente. 
• Add heavy cream to make the sauce of your mac and cheese more creamier. 
• Allow the sauce to thicken before serving. 
• Don’t overcook pasta as it can get mushy while baking.

Variations:

Here are some variations that I recommend everyone try. 

1. Add bacon for a savory twist. 
2. Combine 3 types of cheese like cheddar, parmesan, and cream cheese.
3. You can twist the recipe by adding cauliflower and spinach instead of broccoli. 
4. You can also add various herbs like rosemary to enhance the aroma of the dish.

Ingredients:

• Fresh Broccoli Florets
• Ronzoni Bright Taste Elbow Noodles
• Finely Onion
• Butter
• Fat-Free Chicken Broth
• All-Purpose Flour
• Milk
• Reduced-Fat Cheddar Cheese
• Paprika
• Salt And Pepper To Taste
• Bread Crumbs
• Parmesan Cheese

How to make this Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese:

Step 1. Heat the oven to 375, and grease a 9×13 baking dish well.

Step 2. In a pot, boil the noodles and broccoli together until both are cooked through.

Step 3. While the noodles and broccoli are cooking, saute the onions in the butter over medium heat until softened.

Step 4. Stir in the flour with the onions, and saute for 1-2 minutes before slowly mixing in the chicken broth.

Step 5. Stir in the milk, salt, and pepper to taste and paprika. Boil the mixture lightly for 5 minutes or until thickened.

Step 6. Mix the cheese sauce and noodle mixture well. Pour the mixture into the baking dish, and top with the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Step 7. Bake for 20 minutes. Enjoy!

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How To Store Baked Broccoli Mac And Cheese?

You can always save a portion of baked broccoli mac and cheese for another day. I store my leftover baked broccoli mac and cheese by putting in an airtight container. Whenever I feel lazy and don’t want to make anything for dinner I rely on my leftovers.

How To Reheat Baked Broccoli Mac And Cheese?

I reheat in the microwave or oven for 5 minutes. Don’t overheat it or else it will get mushy. 

How Much Does Baked Broccoli Mac And Cheese Last In The Fridge?

Baked broccoli mac and cheese can be stored for 6 days in the fridge.

Can I Make Ahead Baked Broccoli Mac And Cheese?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and keep it for a night before serving.

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