Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole

2. Meta Info

Servings: 6
Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: Approximately 330–380
Protein: Approximately 17–20 g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 40–45 g
Fat: Approximately 10–13 g
Fiber: Approximately 4–5 g

Nutrition is estimated because the uploaded image shows the finished dish rather than an exact ingredient list.

3. Intro Paragraph

There is something especially comforting about a bubbling casserole of tender pasta, broccoli, and creamy melted cheese. This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole brings that classic comfort-food feeling to the table while adding plenty of colorful vegetables.

The combination of creamy sauce, tender broccoli, and golden pasta makes this an easy family dinner or cozy weekend side dish. Using a moderate amount of cheese and adding broccoli gives the casserole a satisfying balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors.

This Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole is simple enough for a busy evening, yet comforting enough to feel like a special homemade meal.

4. Look at the Recipe

• Creamy and cheesy: Every bite is coated in a smooth, savory cheese sauce.
• Tender broccoli: Broccoli adds color, texture, and a mild vegetable flavor that works beautifully with the creamy pasta.
• Easy comfort food: Everything comes together in one baking dish for a practical family meal.

5. Ingredients Needed

For the Casserole

• 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni or small shell pasta
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-fat milk
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Topping

• 2 tbsp whole-wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp melted butter

6. How to Make Our Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole

1. Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente according to the package directions. Drain well.
2. Blanch the broccoli. During the last 2 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain everything together and set aside.
3. Make the sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
4. Add the milk. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for several minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
5. Melt in the cheese. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine everything. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
7. Prepare the casserole. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9-by-9-inch baking dish.
8. Add the topping. If using, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
9. Bake. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, until hot and bubbling. For a more golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
10. Rest and serve. Let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the creamy sauce settle while keeping the pasta tender.

7. Storage & Serving Suggestions

Storing: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through. Add a small splash of milk if the sauce has thickened.

Freezing: The casserole can be frozen in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. The sauce may become slightly less smooth after thawing.

Serving: Serve with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

8. Tips & FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes. Small shells, rotini, penne, or whole-wheat macaroni all work well. Choose a shape that holds plenty of the creamy sauce.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Cauliflower, peas, spinach, or finely chopped carrots can be added. Just avoid overcrowding the casserole so the sauce remains creamy.

How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?

Add the cheese over low heat rather than boiling the sauce. Excessive heat can cause cheese sauces to become grainy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven directly from the refrigerator.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Try crushed whole-grain crackers, additional Parmesan, or simply leave the topping off. The casserole will still be creamy and delicious.

9. SEO Enhancements

Main Keyword: Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Casserole

Semantic Variations:

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• healthy comfort food
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Recipe Note: The measurements above are a fresh reconstruction based on the uploaded image. The image clearly shows a creamy baked pasta casserole with broccoli and melted cheese, but it does not provide the original recipe or exact quantities.