Very Cheese-Y Macaroni
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Very Cheese-Y Macaroni, a comforting dish that combines tender elbow macaroni with vibrant broccoli and a luscious cheese sauce. Perfect for cheese lovers and families alike, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults with its savory flavors and delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In medium saucepan, cook macaroni according to package directions, until al dente.
- Drain well.
- Fill another saucepan 3/4 full with water.
- Bring water to a boil.
- Add broccoli; reduce heat to medium and cook until done.
- Drain and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 375°.
- Grease an 8-inch glass baking dish.
- In medium saucepan, melt butter; add flour and stir until smooth.
- Whisk in milk, stirring continually, until thickened, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Reserve 1/4 cup Cheddar cheese.
- Stir remaining Cheddar, Parmesan, salt, and cayenne until cheese melts. Add macaroni and broccoli.
- Put it into baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle reserved Cheddar and bread crumbs on top; bake another 15 minutes, until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat milk instead of low-fat. If you don't have sharp Cheddar, a mild variety will work, but the flavor will be less intense. You can also add spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor. For a fun twist, try mixing in some cooked bacon or ham, or even use cauliflower instead of broccoli for a variation.
Serving Suggestions
This Very Cheese-Y Macaroni pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. It's a comforting dish that works well for family dinners or potlucks. For a vegetarian twist, serve with a side of Broccoli Macaroni Casserole to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Be sure to cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Cheese-Y Macaroni contains roughly 877 calories, with 46g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (187% of the Daily Value), protein (91% of the Daily Value), and calcium (87% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2743mg per serving (119% 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 gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free elbow macaroni can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as it may differ from traditional pasta. The cheese sauce will still provide great flavor, making it a delicious alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the bread crumbs and reserved cheese before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
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).