Healthy One Pot Broccoli Mac & Cheese – Easy Comfort Meal

This Healthy One Pot Broccoli Mac & Cheese is everything you love about classic comfort food—with a nutritious twist. Creamy, cheesy pasta with tender bites of broccoli, all made in a single pot for easy prep and cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or anyone craving a wholesome version of this nostalgic favorite.

Instead of heavy cream or loads of butter, this lighter mac and cheese uses milk, broth, and just enough real cheese to create a silky, satisfying sauce. Plus, the broccoli adds fiber, color, and a touch of earthiness that balances the richness of the dish beautifully.

It’s kid-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients Overview

These ingredients come together for a creamy, balanced, and wholesome one-pot pasta that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Elbow Macaroni (or Pasta of Choice)

Classic elbow macaroni works best for holding the creamy sauce. Whole wheat or legume-based pasta boosts fiber and protein.

Substitute: Shells, rotini, or gluten-free pasta all work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Broccoli Florets

Fresh or frozen broccoli adds color, nutrients, and bulk. Cooking it in the same pot softens the texture without overcooking.

Tip: Chop into small, bite-sized florets so they cook evenly and blend easily with the pasta.

Low-Sodium Vegetable or Chicken Broth

Cooking the pasta in broth enhances flavor and forms the base of the cheese sauce.

Bonus: The starch from the pasta thickens the sauce naturally.

Milk (Low-Fat or Whole)

Adds creaminess without needing heavy cream. Whole milk gives a richer flavor, but 2% works beautifully too.

Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for a vegan-friendly version.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce. Sharp cheddar adds depth and tang.

Tip: Don’t use pre-shredded cheese—it contains anti-caking agents that can lead to a grainy texture.

Greek Yogurt (Optional)

Adds a creamy tang and extra protein, replacing butter or cream. Stir in at the end off-heat.

Garlic Powder, Mustard, or Paprika (Optional)

These seasonings add warmth and flavor complexity without overpowering the cheese.

Salt & Pepper

Season to taste once the sauce is done to avoid over-salting the broth early on.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics (Optional)

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil.

• (Optional) Add 1 minced garlic clove or 1/4 cup finely chopped onion.

• Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add Pasta and Liquid

• Add:

  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni

  • 2 ½ cups low-sodium broth

  • 1 cup milk

• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.

• Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

3. Add Broccoli

• After 5–6 minutes of cooking, add:

  • 2 cups small broccoli florets

• Continue simmering until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender (about 4–6 more minutes).

4. Make It Creamy

• Turn heat to low.

• Stir in:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Stir until cheese is fully melted and sauce is creamy.

5. Serve Hot

• Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken naturally.

• Serve warm with extra cheese or cracked pepper on top.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips

• Stir often while pasta cooks to prevent sticking and burning.

• Cut broccoli small to help it soften in time with the pasta.

• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.

• Let rest after cooking to allow sauce to thicken naturally.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.

• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, ground turkey, or chickpeas.

• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, peas, or grated carrot in the last few minutes.

Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check broth for gluten.

• Vegan: Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and skip Greek yogurt.

• Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with cauliflower florets or a chickpea-based pasta.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is wonderfully flexible and satisfying on its own, but can be paired with other sides or mains for a complete meal.

Serve with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Roasted or grilled chicken

• Garlic bread or whole grain toast

• Fresh fruit for a light, sweet contrast

Perfect for:

• Weeknight family dinners

• Quick meal prep lunches

• Healthy comfort food cravings

• Meatless Monday meals

• Kid-friendly vegetarian dinners

Nutritional & Health Notes

This version of mac and cheese is a wholesome upgrade from boxed varieties:

• Broccoli provides vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants

• Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics

• Cooking pasta in broth enhances flavor without excess fat

• Using real cheese allows full flavor with less quantity

Estimated per serving (1 of 4):

• Calories: ~375

• Protein: ~18g

• Carbs: ~45g

• Fat: ~12g

• Fiber: ~5g

To lighten further:

• Use reduced-fat cheese

• Swap Greek yogurt for low-fat cottage cheese

• Use legume-based or whole wheat pasta

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?

A1: Yes! Add it directly from frozen when there are 4–5 minutes left of cooking. It will soften just like fresh.

Q2: Why is my cheese sauce grainy?

A2: This can happen if you use pre-shredded cheese or overheat the sauce. Always grate cheese fresh and melt it gently off the heat.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?

A3: Absolutely. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen the sauce.

Q4: Can I bake this for a crusty top?

A4: Yes! After cooking, transfer to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for 3–5 minutes.

Q5: Can I make this without milk?

A5: Yes. Use all broth or unsweetened plant milk for a dairy-free version. The texture will be slightly less creamy but still delicious.

Q6: Is this dish kid-friendly?

A6: Absolutely! The mild cheese flavor and soft pasta make it great for kids. You can finely chop the broccoli if needed for picky eaters.

Q7: Can I freeze leftovers?

A7: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with extra milk for creaminess.

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