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One-Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy pasta with broccoli cooked in one pot for a quick, healthy, and family-friendly dinner. Perfect for weeknights and comfort meals.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Main
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 360
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni whole wheat or regular
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk dairy or plant-based
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/4 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • 1/4 tsp mustard powder optional
  • fresh parsley optional garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Steam broccoli until bright green and slightly tender (2–3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  3. Melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
  4. Reduce heat to low, stir in cheddar and mozzarella until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder.
  5. Return cooked pasta and broccoli to the pot. Stir until coated. Heat through 2–3 minutes.
  6. Serve warm, garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Cook broccoli slightly underdone if reheating later. Whisk cheese sauce slowly to prevent clumping.