Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese (Easy Family Dinner

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a modern comfort recipe designed for busy nights when you want something warm, filling, and familiar without extra cleanup. Everything comes together smoothly in one pot, creating a rich cheese sauce that clings to the pasta while tender broccoli adds balance, color, and texture.

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Broccoli mac and cheese in a serving dish with melted cheese sauce and green broccoli florets

This version focuses on simplicity and consistency. The pasta cooks until just tender, the sauce thickens gently without rushing, and the broccoli blends naturally into every bite. The result is cozy and satisfying without feeling heavy, making it a dependable choice for both family dinners and casual meals.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Creamy, comforting texture without feeling overly heavy
Broccoli adds color, balance, and a fresh bite
Simple ingredients you likely already have
Works as a main dish or an easy side
Reheats well for leftovers and meal prep
Family-friendly and easy to customize

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pasta & Vegetables

12 ounces elbow macaroni, shells, or cavatappi
2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen

Cheese Sauce

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2½ cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1 cup Gruyère or mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Flavor Boosts

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Pinch of nutmeg

How to Make One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Before You Begin:
Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.

Before You Begin

Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente according to package directions. During the final 2–3 minutes, add the broccoli florets. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until smooth. Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously. Cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Add the cheddar, Gruyère (or mozzarella), and Parmesan a handful at a time, stirring between additions until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional Dijon mustard or nutmeg.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the pasta and broccoli to the pot. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Serve warm, or continue with the optional baking step below.

Optional Baked Finish

Transfer to a lightly greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.

How to Serve Broccoli Mac and Cheese

As a vegetarian main with a simple green salad
As a side dish for roasted vegetables or baked protein
Finished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs
Paired with garlic bread for a cozy dinner

This dish is best served warm, when the sauce is at its creamiest.

Tips for Creamy Results

Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting
Keep heat low when adding cheese to avoid graininess
Do not overcook the broccoli to maintain texture
Stir gently to keep the sauce silky

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Texture may soften slightly after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a 350°F oven, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using high heat when melting cheese, which can make the sauce grainy
Overcooking the pasta before adding it to the sauce
Adding too much broccoli, which can water down the sauce
Skipping seasoning until the end instead of adjusting gradually
Using pre-shredded cheese, which may not melt as smoothly

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Add it directly to the pasta water without thawing.

What cheese melts best?
Cheddar provides flavor, while mozzarella or Gruyère adds creaminess.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate, then reheat gently before serving.

Is this kid-friendly?
Yes. The flavor is mild and creamy, with broccoli blended evenly throughout.

Can I add protein?
Fully cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon can be stirred in before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a practical comfort recipe that fits effortlessly into everyday cooking. With its smooth cheese sauce, tender pasta, and balanced addition of broccoli, it delivers warmth and familiarity without extra steps or dishes. It’s the kind of recipe that works reliably, reheats well, and earns a permanent place in your weeknight rotation.

Close-up of cheesy broccoli mac and cheese with rich sauce and tender pasta

Printable Recipe Card

Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Author: IsaacBlogger
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American