Cheesy Broccoli Macaroni Bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the creamy richness of a three-cheese sauce with the wholesome goodness of tender broccoli and perfectly cooked macaroni. This dish is a delightful way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying the familiar, comforting flavors of a classic macaroni and cheese. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering, this bake is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients:
- 13oz (370g) macaroni
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 small-medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 cup (115g) Cheddar cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup (85g) Gouda cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup (85g) Mozzarella cheese, grated
- 4 tablespoons (30g) flour
- 4 tablespoons (60g) butter
- 4 cups (1L) milk
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C).
- Prepare Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine all the grated cheeses and set aside.
- Cook Broccoli: In a large pot of salted water, cook the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni to al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter over low-medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the crushed garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the flour and whisk over medium-low heat, cooking for a couple of minutes until golden.
- Add Milk to Sauce: Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season Sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add Cheeses to Sauce: Gradually add 3/4 of the cheese mixture to the sauce, whisking until melted after each addition.
- Combine Pasta and Broccoli with Sauce: Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce along with the broccoli florets. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a 12-inch (30cm) round baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 of the cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for an extra indulgent experience.
Cooking Tips:
- For a crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter over the cheese before baking.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Broccoli provides vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- The mix of cheeses offers protein and calcium, essential for bone health.
- Using whole milk ensures a creamy texture while providing essential nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and flour.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure the cheeses used do not contain animal rennet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- The creamy cheese sauce and tender broccoli make a delightful combination.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making it a convenient meal option.
Conclusion:
Enjoy the Cheesy Broccoli Macaroni Bake as a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors make it an ideal choice for any occasion. Try it today and indulge in this cheesy, comforting delight!