Why Make This Recipe
This One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food. It is quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and loaded with nutrition from the broccoli. Plus, cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup for you. Who doesn’t love a delicious meal that is easy to make and healthy at the same time?
How to Make One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups water or broth (broth adds more flavor)
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 8-10 oz broccoli, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup plain Greek-style yogurt
- 1 tbsp butter or ghee (optional)
Directions:
- Bring the whole milk and water or broth to a boil in a large pot.
- Add your pasta to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the pasta and broccoli are cooked to your liking.
- Remove from heat and mix in the cheese, yogurt, and butter or ghee (if using) until the cheese is melted.
- Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
This dish is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad for extra veggies. It’s cheesy, creamy, and comforting—perfect for lunch or dinner. Feel free to sprinkle some extra cheese on top before serving for added flavor.
How to Store One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. You may want to add a splash of milk to warm it up, as it can thicken in the fridge.
Tips to Make One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
- Use whole wheat pasta for an even healthier option.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to change the flavor.
- Add protein like cooked chicken or chickpeas for more substance.
- If you like spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can easily switch out the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower. The recipe is flexible, so feel free to tailor it to your favorite veggies!
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but the dish may be a little less creamy.
Q: What type of pasta works best?
A: Any pasta will work, but smaller shapes like elbow macaroni or shells are best for holding the cheese sauce.
Q: Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes! Use plant-based milk, nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and leave out the yogurt or use a vegan alternative.
One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Bring the whole milk and water or broth to a boil in a large pot.
- Add your pasta to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the pasta and broccoli are cooked to your liking.
- Remove from heat and mix in the cheese, yogurt, and butter or ghee (if using) until the cheese is melted.
- Serve and enjoy!