If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy meal that sneaks in some veggies without guilt, you’re going to love this Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe. I’ve made this dish countless times and it always delights my family — creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crunchy crust that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. Let me walk you through everything you need to know so your Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese turns out just perfect every time.

🤍

Why This Recipe Works

Perfectly Cooked Pasta and Broccoli: Blanching the broccoli and cooking pasta slightly under al dente keeps everything tender but not mushy.
Creamy Cheese Sauce: Using a roux-based sauce means smooth, velvety cheese that clings to every noodle.
Golden Crunchy Topping: The mix of shredded cheddar and seasoned panko bakes to a crispy, flavorful finish.
Balanced Flavors: Little hints of garlic powder, nutmeg, and seasoning elevate this classic dish beyond ordinary mac and cheese.

Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese, cheesy broccoli pasta bake, healthy baked macaroni and cheese, easy comfort food recipes, cheesy veggie casserole - A white rectangular baking dish filled with a baked casserole that has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a smooth pale yellow base, the middle layer contains green broccoli pieces mixed into a creamy sauce, and the top layer is golden brown melted cheese covered with a crunchy light brown breadcrumb topping. The casserole edges show some bubbling and slight browning. Around the dish on a white marbled surface are yellow pasta shells and broccoli florets, with a blue and white checkered cloth on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe plays its part to create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Choosing fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese elevates the dish, while simple pantry staples keep the prep straightforward.

Medium shell pasta: Shells hold onto sauce perfectly, making each bite cheesy and satisfying.
Fresh broccoli: Adds color, crunch, and nutrients, plus blanched broccoli retains its vibrant green and tenderness.
Salted butter: Forms the base of the roux for the creamy sauce, adds richness.
Flour: Thickens the sauce so it clings to pasta and broccoli without being runny.
Whole milk: Creates that luscious, creamy consistency in the cheese sauce.
Kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, nutmeg: Seasonings bring depth and a subtle warmth to the sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides that unmistakable tangy, melty character everyone loves in mac and cheese.
Seasoned panko bread crumbs: Add a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac.

📝

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I love most about this Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily swap cheeses, add different veggies, or adjust the crunch factor based on your family’s tastes and what you have on hand.

Variation: I often mix in a bit of smoked gouda or fontina for a slightly smoky flavor that adds extra depth.
Vegetarian boost: Try roasting the broccoli instead of blanching, or add sautéed mushrooms for a heartier vegetable mix.
Gluten-free: Swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go!
Creamier option: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or mascarpone before baking for ultra velvety sauce.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Blanch the Broccoli Like a Pro

Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Toss in your diced broccoli for just 2 minutes — you want it bright green and tender-crisp, not mushy. Then, quickly plunge it into an ice bath to stop the cooking. This little trick keeps it fresh and vibrant for your mac and cheese.

Step 2: Cook Your Pasta Just Right

Cook your medium shell pasta, but here’s a tip: drain it about 2 minutes before the package says it reaches al dente. It’ll keep cooking later in the cheese sauce and the oven, so this prevents it from getting mushy and overdone.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Melt butter over medium heat in a medium-sized pot, then stir in flour and whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Cook this roux for about 2 minutes — it’s key to cook out that raw flour flavor. Slowly whisk in whole milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and just a pinch of nutmeg. Keep whisking for 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Turn off the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar until it’s melted and silky smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce

Mix your pasta and blanched broccoli gently into that dreamy cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated. This is the moment where it all comes together into that classic comfort food you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Dump the cheesy pasta mixture into an 11″ x 7″ baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar cheese and seasoned panko bread crumbs for that irresistible crunchy, cheesy crust. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, then let it cool just a few minutes before serving. This wait is the hardest part!

💡

Tips from My Kitchen

Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cooking the pasta a bit under al dente makes all the difference — it finishes cooking in the sauce and oven without turning mushy.
Whisk Constantly: Keeping steady whisking when making the roux and adding milk prevents lumps or scalding the milk, resulting in a silky sauce.
Shred Your Own Cheese: Shredding sharp cheddar yourself melts better and gives a creamier sauce than pre-shredded blends.
Topping Timing: If you prefer a less crunchy top, add the cheese and panko breadcrumbs during the last 5 minutes of baking instead of from the start.

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish my baked broccoli mac and cheese with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a little cracked black pepper to add a fresh contrast to richness. For a touch of zing, a drizzle of sriracha mayo or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can really surprise and delight.

Side Dishes

This dish stands well on its own, but I love pairing it with a fresh green salad for crunch and brightness, or some roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness. When I’m feeling indulgent, a side of crispy baked chicken wings makes it a complete crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual entertaining, I sometimes serve this mac and cheese in individual ramekins to give it a cozy, homemade feel. During the holidays, I add a sprinkle of toasted walnuts on top for added texture and a festive touch. It’s a real crowd-pleaser when you bring it to potlucks or family dinners!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover the leftover mac and cheese tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 5 days. Pro tip: let it cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation making the topping soggy.

Freezing

Freezing this dish works well if you want to prep ahead. Just cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake to re-crisp the topping.

Reheating

I find that reheating single servings in the microwave works best for quick lunches, but if you want to retain that crispy topping, warming leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes is the way to go.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works fine here, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture making your mac and cheese watery. Lightly steaming or blanching it before adding will give the best texture.
What type of cheese is best for baked mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is classic and melts beautifully for rich flavor and smooth sauce. You can also blend in cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or fontina for unique twists, but cheddar should be the base for that authentic taste.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from being grainy?

Keep your sauce at medium heat, stirring constantly. Don’t add the cheese until the sauce has thickened and is removed from heat before whisking in the cheese. Grated fresh cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cheese sauce and blanch the broccoli ahead, then assemble and bake when you’re ready. The assembled dish can sit in the fridge for a few hours before baking without compromising texture.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe has truly become one of my go-to comfort foods — it’s simple, satisfying, and comforting without feeling heavy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just craving some cozy solo eats, I promise this recipe will hit the spot. Give it a try, and once you see those golden, bubbly edges and taste that luscious, cheesy sauce with tender broccoli, you’ll be hooked too. Don’t forget to tweak it your way — that’s what makes it so special!