Creamy Broccoli Mac & Cheese Delight
Savor the nostalgic comfort of a classic dish with a delightful twist! This Creamy Broccoli Mac & Cheese Delight is the perfect quick meal for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet uncomplicated. Packed with the goodness of frozen broccoli, this dish combines velvety cheese sauce and macaroni, creating a cozy bowl of comfort. It's customizable too! For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to stir in a handful of your favorite grated cheese at the end. Ideal for one but easily scalable for family dinners, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
skim milk
1 (cup)
water
1 (cup)
macaroni and cheese mix
1 (7 1/2 ounce box)
frozen broccoli
3 (cups, thawed)
butter
1 (tablespoon)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
cheddar cheese (optional)
1 (cup, grated)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the skim milk and water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2
Once simmering, add the macaroni and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3
Introduce the thawed broccoli to the pot, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the broccoli is warmed through.
4
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheese sauce mix and butter until fully incorporated and creamy.
5
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
6
If desired, add grated cheddar cheese at this point, stirring until completely melted and well blended.
7
Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of broccoli macaroni and cheese!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is named Creamy Broccoli Mac & Cheese Delight.
What makes this dish a perfect quick meal?
It is designed for busy weeknights because it is hearty yet uncomplicated and uses quick-cooking ingredients like frozen broccoli.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients required in total, including optional items.
What type of milk is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for one cup of skim milk.
How much water is needed to cook the macaroni?
One cup of water is required.
What size is the macaroni and cheese mix box?
The recipe uses a 7 1/2 ounce box of macaroni and cheese mix.
Should the broccoli be fresh or frozen?
The recipe specifically calls for 3 cups of frozen broccoli.
Does the broccoli need to be thawed before use?
Yes, the instructions state the broccoli should be thawed before being introduced to the pot.
How much butter is added to the sauce?
One tablespoon of butter is stirred into the cheese sauce.
Is there an optional ingredient for extra cheesiness?
Yes, you can optionally add one cup of grated cheddar cheese at the end.
What are the recommended seasonings?
Salt and pepper are used to season the dish to your preference.
How do you begin the cooking process?
In a medium saucepan, combine the skim milk and water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
What heat setting is used for the initial simmer?
The milk and water mixture should be simmered over medium heat.
How long does the macaroni cook before adding the broccoli?
The macaroni should cook for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Why should you stir the macaroni while it cooks?
Stirring is recommended to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the pan.
What is the next step after the macaroni cooks for 5 minutes?
Introduce the thawed broccoli to the pot and cover it with a lid.
How long should the mixture simmer after adding the broccoli?
It should simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes.
How can you tell when the broccoli and pasta are ready?
They are ready when most of the liquid is absorbed and the broccoli is warmed through.
When do you add the cheese sauce mix?
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheese sauce mix once the liquid is absorbed.
What should the consistency of the final sauce be?
The sauce should be fully incorporated, velvety, and creamy.
When should the salt and pepper be added?
Seasoning should be added after the cheese sauce and butter are fully incorporated.
How do you incorporate the optional cheddar cheese?
Stir it in at the end until it is completely melted and well blended.
Should this dish be served hot or cold?
The dish is best enjoyed served hot.
Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, while it is ideal for one, it is easily scalable for family dinners.
What kind of food category does this recipe belong to?
It is categorized as comfort food and a quick weeknight dinner.
Is this a vegetable-rich dish?
Yes, with 3 cups of broccoli, it is packed with vegetable goodness.
What are some tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include macaroni and cheese, comfort food, easy cooking, and cheesy.
Does the recipe require a specific type of pot?
A medium saucepan with a lid is recommended.
Can the recipe be customized?
Yes, it is highly customizable, especially regarding the amount of cheese and seasoning used.
Is the broccoli cooked separately?
No, it is cooked in the same pot as the macaroni to create a one-dish meal.