Description
This Broccoli Bacon Mac and Cheese is a delightful blend of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and nutritious broccoli. It’s an easy-to-make comfort food that’s perfect for a quick dinner or family gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 slices bacon
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup pasta water
- 1 cup milk, or dairy-free milk
- ¾ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder, or to taste
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli in the last 3 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Cook the bacon in a large saucepan to your desired crispness, then remove it using a slotted spoon and drain it on paper towels.
- Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté for 2 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Whisk in the flour and mustard, cooking for 2 minutes while stirring constantly. Pour in the reserved pasta water and milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 4 minutes.
- Add the cheeses and continue to stir until creamy, roughly 2 minutes. Season with chili powder and freshly ground black pepper.
- Combine the pasta, bacon, and broccoli into the cheese sauce. Remove from heat, taste for seasoning, and adjust if necessary.
Notes
Feel free to substitute the cheeses with your favorites for a unique flavor.
For a healthier option, consider using reduced-fat cheese.
Adjust the chili powder and pepper to fit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 357
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 675mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 25mg