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Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli

Warm and Creamy Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli

This Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli combines creamy cheese, tender pasta, and nutritious broccoli for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Broccoli
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni or any small pasta like shells
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets fresh or frozen
For the Cheesy Sauce
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese or aged gouda
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese or Fontina, or Monterey Jack
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Milk plant-based milk for dairy-free option
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream half-and-half can substitute
For Flavor Enhancements
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard or yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder or fresh minced garlic
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder or fresh minced onion
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika or regular paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper omit for milder mac and cheese
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper to taste
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs or panko for lighter topping
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter or olive oil for dairy-free

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Grease the slow cooker interior with cooking spray or unsalted butter.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water for 6-8 minutes; drain and set aside.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, mix macaroni, broccoli, cheeses, milk, cream, mustard, spices, salt, and pepper.
  4. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until thick and bubbly.
  5. Prepare the Crunchy Topping: Melt butter and mix with breadcrumbs and remaining cheddar cheese.
  6. Add the Topping: 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the topping over the mac and cheese.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Let sit a few minutes before serving, garnished with pepper or herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, add the breadcrumb topping just 30 minutes before serving to achieve a golden crunch. Leftovers can be reheated with a splash of milk.

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