White Cheddar Broccoli Mac and Cheese

5 from 2 votes
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Stovetop White Cheddar Broccoli Mac and Cheese is the easiest, creamiest, sauciest, and one of the most delicious comfort foods out there. It’s loaded with a mix of sharp white cheddar, parmesan and tender pieces of broccoli.

Like my Spicy Penne Alla Vodka with Pesto and One-Pan French Onion Orzo this recipe is a family favourite. My two boys love it, and it’s become a staple in our dinner rotation as the years have gone on. It’s one of those recipes that works well when you don’t have a ton of groceries on hand and want to get something on the dinner table in under 30 minutes; not to mention you get to sneak in some greens.

Looking for more 20 minute dinner recipes?

Down below I will share a few other 20 Minute Dinner Ideas I have right here on my blog that I think you will love:

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Keep in touch with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest! Also, if you do make this recipe (or any recipe of mine for that matter) be sure to tag #sammymontgoms so I can see your re-creations!

Ingredients

Here is a quick overview of the ingredients you’ll need to make my White Cheddar Broccoli Mac and Cheese. For the exact detailed measurements and ingredients, scroll to the bottom of this page to review my recipe card.

  • pasta shells
  • butter
  • all purpose flour
  • sharp white cheddar cheese
  • parmesan cheese
  • 2% milk
  • garlic cloves 
  • broccoli
  • salt
  • nutmeg
  • paprika
  • red pepper flakes
  • ground mustard

Watch the recipe video

Watch the recipe on Instagram

Tips before getting started

When your pasta has about 2 minutes left of cook time, add in the broccoli. That way, when the pasta is cooked the broccoli will be done at the same time.

Storing & reheating

Have leftovers? Lucky you. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 30-50 seconds or add to a shallow pan and let simmer on your stove for 2-3 minutes. To thin the sauce, add a a few tablespoons of milk.

Substitutions & FAQ’s

What other types of pasta work well in this recipe?
Something small! Macaroni or ditali would work great.
What protein would pair well with this recipe?
Grilled chicken or shrimp would pair well.

Did you like this recipe?

If you enjoyed this White Cheddar Broccoli Mac and Cheese please consider leaving me a 5 star rating and review in my recipe card provided below, it means so very much to me!

A close-up of a creamy broccoli and pasta dish in a saucepan. The pasta shells and broccoli florets are coated in a thick, light-colored sauce. A wooden spoon holds a portion of the dish above the pan, showcasing the texture.
5 from 2 votes

White Cheddar Broccoli Mac and Cheese

This easy, homemade, stovetop White Cheddar Broccoli Mac and Cheese is comfort food at it's finest! Ready in under 30 minutes, and kid-friendly!
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Equipment

  • 1 frying pan
  • 1 medium sized pot

Ingredients 

  • 1/2 box small pasta shells (250 grams)
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 3 cups 2% milk
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • cups broccoli, roughly chopped
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/8 tsp ground mustard

Instructions 

  • Begin by bringing a medium sized pot of salted water to boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
    During the last 2 minutes of cook time, add the chopped broccoli.
    Strain and set aside until ready to use.
  • While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce.
    To a large sauce pan set to low/medium heat, add the butter.
  • Add the garlic and let saute for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
  • Add all spices and let sauté for another minute.
  • Add the flour and whisk continuously until the flour has formed a paste.
    About 2 minutes.
  • On a low/medium heat, add one cup of milk at a time, whisking continuously until the sauce has thickened and no clumps remain.
    Be sure to let the sauce come to a simmer.
  • Add the white cheddar and parmesan cheese and whisk to combine until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Taste the sauce to see if it needs any additional salt before adding the pasta and broccoli.
  • Remove from heat and combine the sauce with the pasta and broccoli.
  • Dish up and top with loads of fresh cracked pepper.
  • Enjoy!

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 people
Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!

About Sammy Montgoms

I am so glad you are here. I am a BIG foodie gal. I am one of those people who lives to eat, rather than eats to live. I love to create nostalgic Italian dishes (especially pasta), but I also love to whip up simple and quick recipes for my family. Hopefully, my page inspires you to do the same. Thank you for being here, and happy eating!

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Recipe Rating




3 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    Thank you so much for sharing all your recipes with me. I truly enjoy cooking and preparing meals with delicious ingredients. Fresh and easy.

    1. Hi! This makes me so happy! thank you for taking the time to leave a review. I am so glad you are here! xo