Stovetop Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni

Stovetop Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper

How to make Stovetop Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni

1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the 12 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Add the 2 cups of chopped broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking to ensure they are tender-crisp.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli well in a colander. Set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
3. While the pasta cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat until fully liquefied.
4. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. The mixture should form a smooth paste and smell slightly toasty.
5. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, adding a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 ounces of softened cream cheese (if using), 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (if using).
7. Stir constantly until all the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Do not let the sauce boil once the cheese is added, as high heat can cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.
8. Add the drained macaroni and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly in the rich, velvety sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary before serving. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish.

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