One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on a classic favorite. Packed with nutritious broccoli and made in a single pot, it’s an easy, wholesome meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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)
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring the whole milk and water or broth to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add the pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes.
- Step 2: Stir in the finely chopped broccoli and continue to cook for 2 to 3 more minutes, until both the pasta and broccoli reach your desired tenderness.
- Step 3: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, and butter or ghee if using, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water when cooking the pasta.
- Try swapping cheddar for a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for a different taste.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or mustard powder to the cheese sauce for a flavor boost.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it along with the pasta and adjust cooking time as needed until both pasta and broccoli are tender.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This mac and cheese has a mild flavor with added veggies, making it a kid-friendly way to sneak in broccoli.
PrintOne Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
This One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish made quickly with wholesome ingredients. It combines tender pasta and finely chopped broccoli in a cheesy sauce made from sharp cheddar, Greek yogurt, and milk. Prepared all in one pot, this recipe is a nutritious twist on classic mac and cheese, packed with protein, fiber, and flavor without heavy creams or processed cheese. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Liquids
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups water or broth (vegetable or chicken broth recommended for more flavor)
Produce
- 8–10 oz broccoli, finely chopped
Pasta & Cheese
- 8 oz pasta of choice (elbow macaroni, shells, or small shapes work well)
- 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
Dairy & Fats
- 1/4 cup plain Greek-style yogurt
- 1 tbsp butter or ghee (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the liquids and cook pasta: In a large pot, bring 2 cups whole milk and 1 1/2 cups water or broth to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 oz pasta of your choice. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add broccoli and finish cooking: Stir in 8-10 oz finely chopped broccoli and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until both the pasta and broccoli are tender to your liking.
- Add cheese and yogurt: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup plain Greek-style yogurt, and 1 tbsp butter or ghee if using. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve and enjoy: Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and serve immediately while warm for the best cheesy texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using broth instead of water adds deeper flavor to the pasta base.
- Shredding your own cheese from a block yields better melting and taste compared to pre-shredded cheeses containing anti-caking agents.
- The Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein while keeping the sauce tangy and lighter.
- Broccoli can be replaced or supplemented with other vegetables such as cauliflower or spinach for variety.
- For a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with plant milk, use vegan cheese alternatives, and omit the butter.
Keywords: broccoli mac and cheese, healthy mac and cheese, one pot macaroni, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, cheesy broccoli pasta
