Broc-Aroni And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy broccoli and macaroni bake with a spicy kick, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings that crave bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Steam fresh broccoli for 6 minutes or cook frozen broccoli as directed.
- In a saucepan, melt the fat-free margarine over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour until the mixture is thick and smooth, then remove from heat.
- Gradually add the skim milk, salt, cayenne pepper, all the Mozzarella cheese, and half of the Cheddar cheese, stirring well until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni, seasoned bread crumbs, remaining Cheddar cheese, and steamed broccoli; mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into an 8 x 8-inch shallow baking dish sprayed with nonstick spray.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt. You can substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or use gluten-free pasta if needed. For added flavor, throw in some sautéed onions or garlic into the cheese sauce. If you want a little kick, try adding diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Broc-Aroni and Cheese as a comforting main dish or as a side to grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Garden Patch Vegetable Soup for a complete meal. For added freshness, consider a side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep the pasta creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broc-Aroni And Cheese contains roughly 1569 calories, with 30g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 131g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (170% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and calcium (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses according to your preference. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar can add unique flavors. Just keep in mind that the texture might change depending on the cheese used.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make Broc-Aroni and Cheese vegan, substitute the fat-free margarine with a plant-based butter, use a vegan cheese blend, and replace the skim milk with almond or oat milk. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Broc-Aroni and Cheese! After baking, let it cool completely and then store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).