Description
This Broccoli Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a comforting, creamy baked pasta casserole that combines tender steamed vegetables with rich cheddar cheese sauce. Perfectly balanced with nutritious broccoli and cauliflower, this dish offers a delicious way to indulge while sneaking in some veggies. The creamy cheese sauce is made from scratch using a butter and flour roux, milk, and sharp cheddar, then baked to perfection for a golden, bubbly top. Ideal for family dinners or cozy meals, this recipe serves four and can be ready in about 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2 cups macaroni
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Steam Vegetables: Steam the broccoli and cauliflower florets until tender but still firm to retain their texture and color. Set aside.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, preparing for the roux that will thicken the cheese sauce.
- Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, steamed broccoli, cauliflower, and the cheese sauce. Stir gently to evenly coat everything with the cheesy mixture.
- Bake: Transfer the combined mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Steaming vegetables preserves nutrients and texture better than boiling.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
- You can add breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Feel free to substitute milk with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version, but the cheese flavor might differ.
