introduction
This One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a quick, creamy, and simple meal. It cooks in one pot and needs little cleanup. If you want a light dessert after dinner, try our high-protein cheesecake jars recipe for something sweet and easy.
why make this recipe
Make this when you want a healthy comfort meal fast. It uses milk and broccoli for extra nutrition and cuts down on heavy sauce. It fits busy nights and picky eaters. For more simple bowl ideas you can make on another night, see the hot honey ground beef bowl.
how to make One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Cook the pasta right in milk and broth so the pasta soaks up the flavor. Add chopped broccoli near the end so it stays green and tender. Finish with sharp cheddar and a bit of yogurt for creaminess. If you want a simple dessert to pair with this meal, consider the no-bake cottage cheese cheesecake.
Ingredients :
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 :
Bring whole milk and water/broth or a boil, then add your pasta. Reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes., Stir in your broccoli and continue to cook 2-3 minutes, until pasta and broccoli are cooked to your liking., Remove from heat and stir in cheese, yogurt, and butter/ghee (optional) until cheese is melted. Serve and enjoy!
how to serve One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Serve hot from the pot. Spoon into bowls or onto plates. Add black pepper or red pepper flakes if you like spice. A light salad on the side goes well, and for a fresh sweet end try a fruit dessert like the no-bake mango cheesecake.
how to store One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Cool the leftovers to room temperature. Put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm on the stove or microwave until hot.
tips to make One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
- Use broth for more flavor instead of all water.
- Chop broccoli small so it cooks in 2–3 minutes.
- Stir often to keep pasta from sticking.
- Add the cheese off the heat to keep it smooth.
- For a sweet finish with guests, serve a simple pie like the no-bake strawberry cream cheese pie.
variation (if any)
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to change the dish.
- Swap some cheddar for mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
- Stir in a little mustard powder or smoked paprika for more flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes. Add frozen broccoli when you stir it in and cook 2–4 minutes until hot and tender.
Q: Can I use low-fat milk?
A: Yes. The sauce will be a bit thinner but still tasty. You can add a little more cheese or yogurt for creaminess.
Q: How do I stop the cheese from getting grainy?
A: Take the pot off heat before adding cheese and stir gently until melted. Using shredded cheese that is not pre-shredded can help.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Use a plant milk, dairy-free cheese, and a vegan yogurt or mashed potato for creaminess.
Q: Is this freezer friendly?
A: It freezes okay, but texture can change. Freeze in small portions and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese gives you a fast, healthy dinner with little cleanup. For another trusted version with video guidance, see One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe (with Video). If you want a recipe that focuses on lighter ingredients, check the One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese page for a similar approach. For more one-pot ideas and tips, review the One Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe | Gimme Some Oven.
One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk Use low-fat milk if preferred.
- 1.5 cups water or broth Broth adds more flavor.
- 8 oz pasta of choice Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used.
- 8-10 oz broccoli, finely chopped Small pieces cook faster.
- 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese Mild mozzarella can be substituted.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek-style yogurt Can use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- 1 tbsp butter or ghee Optional for added richness.
Instructions
Cooking
- Bring whole milk and water or broth to a boil.
- Add the pasta and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped broccoli and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until both the pasta and broccoli are cooked to your liking.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheese, yogurt, and optional butter or ghee until cheese is melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
