Baked Macaroni With Broccoli
Creamy baked macaroni with tender broccoli and cheesy topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, blending rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni and drain.
- Preheat the oven to 300° to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cream of mushroom, broccoli soup, milk, thawed chopped broccoli, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Cover and bake for 55 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Uncover, top with additional shredded cheese if desired, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a combination of cream of mushroom and broccoli soup. You can also substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh broccoli florets, just make sure to blanch them first. If you're looking to reduce calories, light sour cream or a dairy-free alternative can work well. To enhance flavors, add garlic powder or a pinch of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Ruby'S Chocolate Chip Cookies for a sweet finish. If you're hosting, consider adding a side of garlic bread to complement the creamy macaroni.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk for moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Macaroni With Broccoli contains roughly 596 calories, with 26g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (66% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 641mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
Swiss cheese is a great substitute that will give a different flavor profile. You can also use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a unique twist, or try a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or even canned tuna for added protein. For a vegetarian option, consider adding some cooked lentils or chickpeas to boost the nutritional value.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).