One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese

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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**

#### **1. Cook the Pasta**
Start by boiling the elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice) in a large pot according to the package instructions. Typically, this takes about **8-10 minutes**. Make sure to add **salt** to the boiling water for added flavor.

Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain it and set it aside. Be sure to reserve about **1/2 cup of pasta water** to use later, which will help in making the sauce smoother and more cohesive.

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#### **2. Sauté the Broccoli**
While the pasta is cooking, add a **tablespoon of olive oil** or **butter** to the same pot. Heat it over medium heat, then toss in the **broccoli florets**. If using fresh broccoli, sauté them for about **4-5 minutes** until they’re bright green and slightly tender. For frozen broccoli, cook for about **3-4 minutes** until heated through. You want the broccoli to be tender but still vibrant.

Remove the broccoli from the pot and set it aside.

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#### **3. Make the Cheese Sauce**
In the same pot, melt **2 tablespoons of butter** over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add **2 tablespoons of flour** and stir constantly for about **1-2 minutes** to form a roux. This will thicken the sauce.

Gradually whisk in the **milk** and **heavy cream**, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring for about **3-5 minutes** until the sauce begins to thicken.

Next, add **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **salt**, and **pepper** to taste. Stir the sauce until it reaches a smooth consistency.

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#### **4. Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Cheese**
Once the sauce is thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the **shredded cheddar cheese** and continue to mix until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Add the cooked **pasta** back into the pot and gently stir to coat the noodles with the creamy cheese sauce. Then, return the **sautéed broccoli** to the pot and mix it all together.

If the mixture is too thick, add a little of the reserved **pasta water**, about **1/4 cup at a time**, to reach your desired consistency.

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#### **5. Final Touches and Serving**
Once everything is well combined, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you like a bit of extra flavor, you can sprinkle **grated Parmesan cheese** over the top, or even add a dash of **paprika** for color and a subtle smokiness.

Serve your **One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese** hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

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### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**

– **One-Pot Wonder**: No need for multiple pots and pans. This dish is easy to prepare and clean up afterward.
– **Loaded with Veggies**: The broccoli adds nutrients and color to the dish while still blending seamlessly with the cheese and pasta.
– **Customizable**: You can swap out the broccoli for other veggies like **spinach**, **cauliflower**, or **peas** if you prefer, making it a versatile meal.
– **Comforting & Creamy**: The combination of **cheddar** and **heavy cream** makes this mac and cheese extra creamy and indulgent without being overly heavy.
– **Kid-Friendly**: It’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters while still keeping them excited about their favorite cheesy pasta.

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### **Pro Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese**

1. **Use Fresh Cheese**: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded versions, which contain anti-caking agents.
2. **Don’t Overcook the Broccoli**: Keep the broccoli slightly crisp to maintain its texture and color. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy.
3. **Flavor Boost**: Try adding a pinch of **mustard powder** or a few dashes of **hot sauce** to enhance the flavor of the cheese sauce.
4. **Make it Gluten-Free**: Swap the all-purpose flour for **gluten-free flour** or use cornstarch as a thickener for a gluten-free version.
5. **Add Protein**: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked **chicken**, **bacon**, or **sausage** to the pot along with the pasta.

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### **Conclusion**

**One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese** is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and full of flavor with the added bonus of fresh vegetables. Perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something indulgent but easy to prepare, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can create a meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting, give this one-pot wonder a try!