Very Cheesy Macaroni
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish infused with sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, complemented by tender broccoli and crispy bread crumbs—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in a medium saucepan according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Fill another saucepan three-quarters full with water, bring to a boil, add broccoli, reduce heat, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the first saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded Cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, salt, and cayenne pepper until cheeses melt and sauce is smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni and broccoli with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with bread crumbs, and optionally bake at 375°F for 10 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat milk. You can also add a touch of nutmeg for extra flavor. If you want to incorporate more vegetables, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach. For a gluten-free option, substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted according to your taste, similar to how you might customize a Pumpkin Pie Spice Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Very Cheesy Macaroni alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a vegetable stir-fry for added protein. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving it with Deluxe Strawberry French Toast. This dish also makes a great side for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Cheesy Macaroni contains roughly 622 calories, with 30g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (151% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (60% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2199mg per serving (96% 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 and cheese sauce ahead of time. Assemble the dish in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different cheeses based on your preference. Mozzarella, fontina, or even pepper jack cheese could work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so choose cheeses that complement each other.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Very Cheesy Macaroni is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. You can enhance the nutritional value by adding more vegetables, making it a hearty option for those following vegetarian recipes. Just be sure to check the cheese labels to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
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).