Broccoli Scallop
Creamy broccoli and cheese pasta with herbs, offering a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add 1 tablespoon salt to rapidly boiling water.
- Gradually add macaroni so that water continues to boil.
- Cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Drain in colander.
- In a saucepan, melt butter or margarine.
- Stir in flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, basil, oregano, and pepper.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in mayonnaise and grated Monterey Jack cheese until smooth.
- Add chopped cooked broccoli and mix well.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the broccoli cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Fresh herbs like parsley can replace dried basil and oregano for a more vibrant flavor. To add a protein boost, mix in cooked chicken or shrimp. This dish can be customized by adding your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as a Ginger Pear Salad, for a complete meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a light vegetable side dish to balance the richness. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat or enjoy it as a main course with a glass of white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli scallop in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Scallop contains roughly 2499 calories, with 74g protein, 468g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (769% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1218mg per serving (53% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chopped broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the cheese sauce to prevent excess moisture. This will help maintain the consistency of the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the broccoli cheese sauce and cook the pasta a day in advance. Combine them just before serving and reheat in the oven. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for serving at gatherings.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a bit more milk, a tablespoon at a time, and stir until you reach your desired consistency. This is an easy fix to ensure the sauce coats the pasta and broccoli evenly.
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).