One 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
Scale
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
