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Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese is creamy, crispy, and secretly light! A comfort food makeover loaded with broccoli and topped with a golden crust 🧀🥦
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Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese is creamy, crispy, and secretly light! A comfort food makeover loaded with broccoli and topped with a golden crust 🧀🥦
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, Italian
Keyword Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 10

Ingredients

  • 12 oz high fiber elbows
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup minced onion
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 cups skim milk
  • 1 cup fat free chicken broth
  • 8 oz 2 cups reduced-fat sharp cheddar
  • 12 oz fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoon grated parmesan
  • 1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • salt and fresh pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and toss in your pasta and broccoli. Cook them together, following the pasta package directions for al dente—or take them out about 2 minutes early if you like a firmer bite.
  • While that’s cooking, lightly spray a baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften.
  • Sprinkle in the flour and stir for another minute, just until it turns a light golden color and blends in nicely.
  • Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking as you go. Turn the heat up to medium-high and let it bubble away for around 5 minutes, or until the sauce is smooth and thick. Season with a bit of salt and pepper.
  • Once the sauce has thickened, take it off the heat and stir in the cheese until it’s fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
  • Now, add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheesy sauce and stir everything together until nicely coated.
  • Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle some extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top, then give it a quick spray of cooking spray to help it crisp up.
  • Bake for 15–20 minutes, then finish it off under the broiler for a few minutes to get that golden, crunchy topping. Enjoy!