Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting yet vibrant dish that perfectly captures the flavors of the season, look no further than this Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe. This delightful twist on classic mac and cheese incorporates fresh broccoli florets and a blend of warming spices, creating a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s both hearty and wholesome. Each bite delivers a gorgeous balance of rich cheddar and parmesan cheeses, subtle nutmeg and smoked paprika, and a crispy breadcrumb topping that makes this dish an irresistible centerpiece for any autumn meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital part in building layers of flavor, adding texture, and bringing comforting color to your plate.

• 8 oz elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto creamy cheese sauce and bits of broccoli.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green and healthy crunch to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for that silky roux base and rich flavor.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce into a luscious, velvety coating.
• 2 cups whole milk: Provides the creamy backbone of the sauce for a smooth, luscious texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavors without overwhelming.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat that balances the cheese’s richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: A warm, cozy spice that perfectly complements creamy cheese dishes.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky depth, elevating the autumnal vibe.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star cheese that brings sharpness and melty goodness.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, savory edge for complexity.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Provides the golden, crunchy topping everyone loves.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Coats the breadcrumbs to help them toast to crispy perfection.

How to Make Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready to give your mac and cheese that perfect golden crust while you prepare the creamy filling.

Step 2: Cook Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets so they get tender yet maintain a nice bite. Once done, drain both and set aside, keeping the broccoli vibrant and ready to mingle with cheese.

Step 3: Create the Roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, crafting a smooth, fragrant paste that will thicken your sauce beautifully without becoming gummy.

Step 4: Build the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in the whole milk to your roux, taking care to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking often, until the sauce thickens to a creamy, luscious consistency—this should take about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Add Cheese

Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and smoked paprika to the thickened sauce. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses, allowing them to melt slowly into a smooth, rich sauce bursting with autumn flavors.

Step 6: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese

Transfer the cooked macaroni and broccoli into the cheese sauce, folding everything together so each piece is luxuriously coated in the creamy, cheesy goodness at the heart of this Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe.

Step 7: Assemble in Baking Dish

Lightly grease your baking dish and pour in the cheesy macaroni and broccoli mixture, spreading it evenly to prepare for the final crowning touch.

Step 8: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. This simple step ensures the topping will bake to a beautifully golden, crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the creamy inside.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the olive oil-coated breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You want the breadcrumbs crisp and golden brown, signaling that the dish is ready to delight your senses.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow your autumnal masterpiece to cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief pause lets the cheese sauce set slightly, making scooping easier and the flavors even more inviting.

How to Serve Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

To add a fresh and colorful pop, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a silky finish that enhances the dish’s richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with crisp green salads or roasted root vegetables to round out your autumn meal with contrasting textures and brightness. A tangy cranberry sauce or beet slaw also complements the cheesy richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions baked in small ramekins with crumb toppings for a cozy, personal touch. Alternatively, try stirring in some toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds into the breadcrumb topping for extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your autumn feast, store leftover Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days, making for an easy reheat during busy weeknights.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully! Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy breadcrumb topping. If short on time, microwave on medium power, stirring halfway, though the topping won’t stay as crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides the perfect tang and melt, greying mozzarella or gouda will add a different dimension. Just be sure to balance flavors since some cheeses are milder than others.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap dairy milk for unsweetened plant-based milk, use vegan butter, and substitute cheeses with your favorite vegan alternatives. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor punch.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Cauliflower, spinach, or sweet corn all pair beautifully and add their own unique texture and flavor to your Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe.

What can I do to make the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?

Mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter instead of olive oil or add a handful of grated parmesan for extra crunch and flavor before baking.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux. Also, be sure to check that your breadcrumbs are gluten-free or use crushed gluten-free crackers.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe is a true celebration of seasonal comfort food, combining luscious cheese sauce with fresh green broccoli and cozy spices to warm your heart and home. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to become a treasured classic on your autumn table. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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