Name: Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups medium shell pasta, cooked 2 minutes less than al dente; 2 cups diced fresh broccoli; 4 tablespoons salted butter; ¼ cup flour; 3 cups whole milk; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 pinch ground nutmeg; 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided; ⅓ cup seasoned panko bread crumbs

Jump to Recipe·5 from 4 reviews

If you’re anything like me, you know that comfort food doesn’t have to be boring or unhealthy. That’s why I’m excited to share my Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe with you—it’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a fresh veggie twist that makes you feel warm and a little bit virtuous at the same time. Seriously, it’s fan-freaking-tastic, and once you try it, it might just become your go-to for cozy dinners or even casual get-togethers. Let me walk you through why it works so well and how to nail it every time!

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Why This Recipe Works

Balanced Flavor: Sharp cheddar cheese delivers boldness while broccoli adds freshness and texture.
Perfectly Creamy: The homemade cheese sauce thickens just right, coating every pasta shell beautifully.
Crisp Topping: Panko breadcrumbs toast up golden for a satisfying crunch on top.
Simple Prep: A few easy steps with everyday ingredients make this an accessible comfort meal.

Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese, cheesy broccoli pasta bake, healthy baked mac and cheese, broccoli pasta casserole, easy cheesy veggie pasta - A white rectangular baking dish filled with a baked casserole that has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a smooth pale yellow base, the middle layer contains green broccoli pieces mixed into a creamy sauce, and the top layer is golden brown melted cheese covered with a crunchy light brown breadcrumb topping. The casserole edges show some bubbling and slight browning. Around the dish on a white marbled surface are yellow pasta shells and broccoli florets, with a blue and white checkered cloth on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe is a classic for a reason: each ingredient plays a key role, and together they create a dish that’s comforting and nourishing. When you shop, aim for fresh broccoli and a good-quality sharp cheddar—those tweaks make a surprisingly big difference!

Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese, cheesy broccoli pasta bake, healthy baked mac and cheese, broccoli pasta casserole, easy cheesy veggie pasta - Flat lay of medium shell pasta, bright green diced fresh broccoli florets, four tablespoons of golden salted butter, a small white bowl of fine white flour, a small white bowl of whole milk, whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white bowl of kosher salt crystals, a small white bowl of ground black pepper, a small white bowl of garlic powder, a small white bowl holding a pinch of ground nutmeg, a small white bowl heaped with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and a small white bowl filled with golden seasoned panko bread crumbs, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Medium shell pasta: The cups and curves hold onto cheesy sauce perfectly.
Diced fresh broccoli: Adds a wonderful pop of green and a subtle crunch.
Salted butter: Creates a rich base and balances the flavors.
Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce for that creamy texture.
Whole milk: Provides a luscious creaminess that light milk just can’t match.
Kosher salt: Enhances all other flavors without being harsh.
Ground black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and depth.
Garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory note that elevates the sauce.
Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch adds a cozy, nutty undertone that’s classic in cheese sauces.
Sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show, offers the signature tangy taste and gooey meltability.
Seasoned panko bread crumbs: Adds an irresistible crunchy texture topping.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love to personalize this Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe depending on what’s in season or what we’re craving. Don’t be afraid to experiment – that’s part of the fun in the kitchen!

Variation: I sometimes swap half the cheddar for smoked gouda to give it a subtle smoky flavor that my family loves.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux to make it safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
Extra veggies: Adding roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms gives a different earthy twist.
Mild heat: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the cheese sauce can add an unexpected but delightful warmth.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Blanch the Broccoli for Perfect Texture

This step is key for crunchy but tender broccoli. I throw the diced fresh broccoli into boiling water for just 2 minutes — don’t skip this timing! Then plunge it immediately into an ice bath to stop the cooking so that the broccoli stays bright and crisp in the final bake. Drain well so no extra water makes your sauce runny.

Step 2: Craft the Roux and Cheese Sauce

Start by melting butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour—take your time here to cook out that raw flour taste for about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth and avoid scalding the milk; this part takes about 5-7 minutes to thicken up and coat the back of a spoon. Once thickened, turn off the heat, and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar until melted and the sauce is silky.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese Sauce

Prepare your pasta just slightly under al dente—about 2 minutes less than the package states—so it won’t get mushy during baking. Mix the pasta, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce together in the pot until everything is well-coated. This is where it all comes together, and you’ll notice how creamy and inviting it looks.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into an 11″ x 7″ baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and a generous sprinkle of seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Let it cool a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely.

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Pro Tips for Making Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cooking just shy of al dente prevents a soggy bake—a lesson I learned the hard way.
Homemade Roux is Key: Taking your time to cook the flour-butter mixture removes that raw taste and gives a velvety sauce.
Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect meltiness.
Cool Before Serving: Letting the dish rest after baking thickens the sauce and makes serving cleaner.

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish mine with a light sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for that fresh color pop and a gentle herbal note. Sometimes a pinch of smoked paprika on top adds warmth and a touch of color that guests always ask about.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette—it cuts through the richness. Another favorite is roasted cherry tomatoes or a simple steamed green bean almondine that adds crunch and contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, serve it straight from the baking dish alongside rustic bread for mopping up every last bit. Or for a dinner party, spoon it into individual ramekins, sprinkle the topping just before baking, and serve piping hot—guests always love that personal touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they usually last up to five days. Before storing, make sure the mac and cheese has cooled completely to avoid condensation which can make the topping soggy.

Freezing

This Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe freezes well for up to two months. Freeze it right after baking, in a freezer-safe container, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

I find reheating individual portions in the microwave (covered loosely) works great. If you want to restore some crunch, pop it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes after microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli in the Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the broccoli well before adding it to avoid excess moisture that could make the dish watery. You can also blanch the frozen broccoli briefly to improve texture.
What if I don’t have sharp cheddar—can I substitute it?

Yes! While sharp cheddar provides classic tanginess, you can mix in mozzarella for creaminess or gouda for a smoky touch. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well.
How do I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Keep your sauce at a moderate heat—too high can cause the proteins in the cheese to seize up. Also, adding cheese off the heat and whisking until smooth helps maintain a creamy texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Sure. Swap the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free milk like oat or almond milk. For cheese, look for vegan cheddar-style shreds designed for melting. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it combines nostalgia with a sneaky green veggie boost. I’ve made it countless times for my family and friends, and it never fails to get smiles all around. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this deliciously balanced dish as much as I do—it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try soon, and I bet you’ll keep reaching for this recipe on those days when you crave something comforting but a little fresh, too!