Wholesome Creamy Macaroni and Broccoli A 30-Minute Meal – Looking for a simple yet delicious meal to whip up for dinner? Try this creamy macaroni and broccoli recipe! It combines the comforting texture of macaroni pasta with the goodness of broccoli, all smothered in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only easy to make but also satisfies your cravings for a hearty meal. Here’s how you can make this flavorful dish in just under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 200g elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 medium-sized broccoli (cut into florets)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (preferably full cream for richness)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (you can also use mozzarella Slot Bet 100 for a different texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Read more: Legendary Nighttime Eats in Solo A Food Lover’s Guide
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Start by bringing a gates of olympus 1000 large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch them. Once both the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large pan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the garlic powder (or minced garlic) and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, sprinkle the flour over the butter and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste of the flour.
- Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Once the milk is incorporated, add the heavy cream and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. This should take about 5 minutes on medium heat.
- Cheese It Up: Lower the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and velvety. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.
- Combine the Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli to the pan with the creamy cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta and broccoli evenly with the sauce. Let it cook together for 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy macaroni and broccoli to serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can top this dish Mahjong with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or even a few crumbles of crispy bacon.
- If you want a bit of crunch, consider adding some toasted breadcrumbs on top just before serving.
- This dish can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
This creamy macaroni and broccoli recipe is a great comfort food option. It’s quick, simple, and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The richness of the creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the light crunch of the broccoli, creating a balanced dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to add some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.
Enjoy this easy, tasty dinner option that’s perfect for families and anyone in need of a comforting meal after a long day!