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Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese


  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

Description

Satisfy your cravings for comfort food with our indulgent Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese recipe. This dish elevates classic macaroni and cheese with the addition of tender broccoli florets and a rich, velvety cheese sauce infused with garlic, shallot, and Dijon mustard. Perfectly creamy and flavorful, this dish is sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.


Ingredients

  • 8 ounces medium pasta shells
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ⅓ cups whole milk
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
  • 6 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated

 


Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and shallot, and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  3. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, half and half, and Dijon mustard until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Stir in the cooked pasta, chopped broccoli florets, and grated cheddar cheese until well combined and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Serve the creamy broccoli mac and cheese immediately, garnished with additional black pepper if desired.

Notes

  1. Serve Immediately: Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is best served immediately after preparation to enjoy its rich and creamy texture at its peak. Serve it hot and freshly cooked for the best dining experience.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish the mac and cheese with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness. The vibrant green herbs complement the dish beautifully.
  3. Pair with a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the mac and cheese by serving it with a light side salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The crispness of the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
  4. Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: If you have leftovers, allow the mac and cheese to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate any unused portions promptly to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
  5. Reheat with Care: When reheating leftover mac and cheese, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating, as it can cause the cheese sauce to separate or become grainy.
  6. Add a Splash of Milk: If the mac and cheese thickens upon reheating, revive it by stirring in a splash of milk or half and half to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency.
  7. Customize with Additional Toppings: Add extra toppings such as crispy breadcrumbs, crumbled bacon, or diced tomatoes before serving to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Get creative and customize it according to your taste preferences.
  8. Portion for Meal Prep: Divide the mac and cheese into individual portions before storing to make meal prep and reheating easier. This allows for convenient grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
  9. Freeze for Future Use: While mac and cheese can be frozen, it’s best to do so before baking if possible. Transfer the unbaked mac and cheese to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
  10. Enjoy as Leftover Lunch: Pack leftover mac and cheese in a microwave-safe container for a delicious and satisfying lunch option. Simply reheat in the microwave at work or school for a comforting meal on the go.