Creamy Mac n Cheese with Broccoli (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the cheese sauce
01 -
2 teaspoons butter
02 -
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
03 -
300ml whole milk
04 -
2 fresh garlic cloves, finely minced
05 -
150g strong cheese, coarsely grated (Emmental, aged mountain cheese, or cheddar)
06 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
07 -
A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
08 -
1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder
→ Additional ingredients
09 -
1 head fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
10 -
300g orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape that holds sauce well)
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the broccoli for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, grate the cheese.
02 -
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for another minute until it smells slightly nutty.
03 -
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken. Reduce heat to low and stir in the grated cheese until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and paprika.
04 -
Drain the pasta, reserving a little cooking water. Add the pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
This creamy pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser for both children and adults alike. The addition of broccoli transforms it into a well-balanced meal that delivers both comfort and nutrition.