Description
This One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish made with whole milk, sharp cheddar, and fresh broccoli. It’s a wholesome twist on the classic mac and cheese, packed with veggies and made in just one pot for easy cleanup. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal any day.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquids
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups water or broth (preferably broth for added flavor)
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 8–10 oz broccoli, finely chopped
Dairy & Fats
- 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup plain Greek-style yogurt
- 1 tbsp butter or ghee (optional)
Instructions
- Bring Liquids to Boil: In a large pot, combine the whole milk and water or broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. This forms the base for cooking your pasta and adding flavor.
- Add Pasta and Simmer: Once boiling, add your pasta of choice into the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the pasta for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook Broccoli: Stir in the finely chopped broccoli and continue to cook for 2-3 more minutes, until both the pasta and broccoli are tender and cooked to your desired texture.
- Add Cheese and Finish: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, and optional butter or ghee until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy mac and cheese!
Notes
- Using broth instead of water enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Choose whole grain or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
- For a creamier texture, ensure the cheese is shredded finely so it melts quickly.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang while boosting protein content.
- Butter or ghee is optional but adds richness to the final dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: broccoli mac and cheese, healthy mac and cheese, one pot recipes, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, broccoli recipes, quick meals
