Ever tasted a mac and cheese that hugs you back?

Imagine a creamy, dreamy dish of mac and cheese that’s not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. With broccoli sneaking in for a health boost, this One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It’s quick to whip up, requires just one pan, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a cheesy pasta dish?

Why make this recipe

You’re going to love this recipe because it’s an all-in-one dish that checks off a few boxes on your busy weeknight list:

Easy cleanup: One pot means less scrubbing and more time chilling out after dinner – can I get an amen?
Family-friendly: If your little ones shy away from their greens, this creamy concoction cloaks broccoli in cheesy goodness. Stealth health at its finest!
Affordable: You don’t need a gold mine to make this – just pick up a couple of affordable ingredients from your pantry!

Ingredients:

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

2 cups whole milk
1 + 1/2 cups water or broth (I like broth for more flavor)
8 oz pasta of choice
8-10 oz broccoli, finely chopped
2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup plain Greek-style yogurt
1 tbsp butter or ghee (optional)

Directions:

Making this delightful dish is simpler than you might think! Here’s how to do it:

Bring the whole milk and water/broth to a boil in a large pot.
Add your pasta and reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in your broccoli and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pasta and broccoli reach your desired tenderness.
Remove from heat and stir in the cheese, yogurt, and butter/ghee until the cheese melts beautifully.
Serve and enjoy!

How to make One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese (Overview)

Let’s break it down, shall we? Start by boiling your liquid – that’s the whole milk and broth. Toss in your pasta and let it simmer, bringing it all together with the broccoli at the end — they’ll make a perfect pair! Stir in the cheese and yogurt for that creamy finish, and voilà! You’ve got a meal that will impress without leaving a mountain of dishes behind. Pro tip: Add the cheese gradually to ensure a smooth melt. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

How to serve One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

When it’s time to serve, let’s go all out! Picture a big bowl of your mac and cheese topped with an extra sprinkle of cheese or some crunchy breadcrumbs for that little bit of texture. Pair it with a side salad to balance the meal’s creaminess, or serve with garlic bread to scoop up every last cheesy bite. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the table!

How to store One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Making this dish ahead of time? You’re in luck! It keeps well in the fridge for about 3–5 days. Just store it in an airtight container, and you’re good to go. Want to pull it out later? Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep that creamy texture intact. Make-ahead meals for the win! 🙌

Tips to make One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Here are some quick insider tricks to take your dish to the next level:

Control the heat: Keep an eye on the simmer to prevent overcooking and mushiness.
Use whole grain pasta: Boost the fiber and nutrients effortlessly!
Add spices: A dash of garlic powder or chili flakes can elevate the flavor profile. Who wouldn’t want a little kick?

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Spice it up! You could easily make this dish vegan by swapping regular cheese and yogurt with plant-based alternatives. Or, if you want a flavor twist, try adding cooked chicken or crumbled bacon for some non-vegetarian fun. The world is your oyster (or rather, your mac and cheese).

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just remember to thaw it out first and chop it up before adding it to the pot.

What pasta works best?
You can use any pasta you love! Macaroni, penne, or even gluten-free varieties work beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to enjoy.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!