Alfredo Broccoli Mac Bake (Print View)

Baked macaroni with broccoli, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a golden cheese topping for family-friendly comfort.

# Components:

→ Pasta & Vegetables

01 - 12 ounces elbow macaroni or short pasta
02 - 1 pound broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces

→ Alfredo Sauce

03 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 2 1/2 cups whole milk
06 - 1 cup heavy cream
07 - 1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 - Pinch ground nutmeg (optional)

→ Topping

13 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 - 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
02 - Boil the macaroni in a large pot of salted water, cooking until al dente (1 to 2 minutes less than package instructions). Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
03 - In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to create a blond roux. Do not allow the mixture to brown.
05 - Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
06 - Add 1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until fully melted and sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
07 - Fold the drained pasta and broccoli into the Alfredo sauce, mixing thoroughly to ensure even coating.
08 - Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle over 1/2 cup Parmesan and 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese.
09 - Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the surface is golden and bubbling.
10 - Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses only simple pantry and fridge staples you probably have on hand
  • Easy to adapt for different diets and tastes
  • Ready for the oven in under 30 minutes
  • Perfect balance of creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and nourishing vegetables
02 -
  • High in calcium and protein to keep you full
  • Great way to sneak in vegetables for kids
  • Freezes and reheats surprisingly well without drying out
03 -
  • Let the pasta rest after baking to set slightly for cleaner slices
  • Freshly grated cheese always melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded versions
  • Do not skip adding both Parmesan and mozzarella each brings unique qualities

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