Healthy One Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe (Print Version)
Healthy One Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a quick, nutritious meal. Creamy, cheesy pasta packed with broccoli, made in a single pot for easy cleanup.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ One-Pot Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
10 oz whole wheat elbow macaroni
05 -
3 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
06 -
1 cup 1% milk
→ Velvety Cheese Embrace
07 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
08 -
2 oz light cream cheese, softened
09 -
1 tsp dry mustard powder
10 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
→ Vibrant Green Goodness
11 -
4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
→ Season & Garnish
12 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
13 -
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
02 -
To the pot, add 10 oz whole wheat elbow macaroni, 3 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, and 1 cup 1% milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is al dente.
03 -
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 oz light cream cheese, softened, 1 tsp dry mustard powder, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, forming the base for your One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese.
04 -
Add 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces, to the pot. Stir well to combine. The residual heat from the mac and cheese will gently steam the broccoli, keeping it vibrant and slightly crisp for this One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese.
05 -
Season your One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese generously with salt and black pepper to taste. For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Stir one final time to ensure even distribution of flavors.
06 -
Let the One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese rest, covered, for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!
# Notes:
01 -
For a richer flavor, you can substitute a portion of the vegetable broth with chicken broth, or use whole milk instead of 1% milk.
02 -
Store leftover One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
03 -
If you prefer softer broccoli, add it during the last 5 minutes of the macaroni cooking time. For crispier broccoli, stir it in right before serving.
04 -
Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor. A side salad would complete this healthy meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Measuring cups and spoons
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 542 kcal
Total Fat: 22 g
Total Carbohydrate: 63 g
Protein: 26 g