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One-Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

A creamy, lighter mac and cheese packed with broccoli and made entirely in one pot.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups broccoli florets chopped small
  • 2.5 cups low-fat milk
  • 1 cup vegetable broth low sodium
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
Optional Thickener
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp water

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add milk and broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in macaroni and cook 6 minutes, stirring often.
  4. Add broccoli and cook 5–7 minutes until pasta is tender.
  5. Whisk cornstarch with water and stir in if thicker sauce is desired.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheeses, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper until creamy.
  7. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.

Notes

For best texture, use freshly shredded cheese and stir frequently while cooking pasta.