As the crisp autumn air fills the neighborhood and colorful leaves crunch underfoot, I find myself drawn to the warm, comforting embrace of home-cooked meals. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of melting cheese and roasted broccoli wafting through the kitchen, beckoning friends and family to the table. This Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli is my go-to dish for those cool evenings when all I crave is something rich and satisfying.
Made effortlessly in a slow cooker, this creamy, cheesy delight transforms traditional mac and cheese into a wholesome, family-friendly feast. The vibrant green broccoli not only adds a pop of color but also a nutritious twist, making every bite both indulgent and beneficial. Whether you’re winding down after a hectic day or hosting a cozy gathering, this recipe invites warmth and togetherness, proving that comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious. Let’s dive into this heartwarming dish that’s sure to become a fall favorite!
Why is Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli a Favorite?
Comforting warmth: This recipe envelops you in a cozy embrace, perfect for autumn evenings.
Nutritious twist: Broccoli adds vitamins and a vibrant splash of green, enhancing your meal’s healthiness.
Effortless prep: Thanks to the slow cooker, you can easily create this dish while you relax or tackle other tasks.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it satisfies picky eaters and exudes warmth for all.
Delicious melody: The creamy cheese sauce harmonizes beautifully with the tender broccoli, creating a symphony of flavors you’ll crave all season!
Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Elbow Macaroni – This classic shape gives the dish a fantastic texture and holds the creamy sauce well.
For the Broccoli
• Broccoli – Fresh or frozen, it adds essential vitamins and a vibrant green color to your cozy dish.
For the Cheese Sauce
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Audaciously bold, this cheese lends that classic mac and cheese flavor essential to the recipe.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Enhances the gooeyness of the sauce; optional, but it adds extra creaminess and stretch.
• Milk – This creates the perfect base for your cheesy sauce; you can use any milk you have on hand.
• Heavy Cream – For that luxurious, creamy texture; feeling a bit lighter? Half-and-half makes a great substitute.
• Dijon Mustard – A little tang goes a long way, elevating the cheese flavors; it’s optional if you prefer a milder taste.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth to the flavor; fresh minced garlic is a great alternative for a more robust taste.
• Onion Powder – This subtly enhances the savory notes in your sauce; you can replace it with fresh onion if desired.
• Smoked Paprika – Infuses a warm smokiness, complementing the cheese; for some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
For the Topping
• Breadcrumbs – Adds a much-loved crispy layer on top, contrasting with the creamy base; mix some Parmesan in for flavor diversity.
• Unsalted Butter – Make those breadcrumbs golden and crispy by using melted butter for topping!
Enjoy preparing your Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli as this enticing dish begins to come together!
How to Make Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli
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Prep the Crockpot: Grease the interior of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later.
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Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water for around 6-8 minutes until it’s al dente. Drain it well and set aside to keep that perfect texture.
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Prepare the Broccoli: Cut fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets or thaw out frozen broccoli and make sure to drain it well. This adds a lovely green flair!
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Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Add the cooked macaroni, broccoli, 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella (if using), milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if desired), salt, and pepper. Stir the ingredients together until fully combined.
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Cook Slow: Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and that cheesy goodness throughout.
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Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and any remaining cheddar cheese for that crispy topping.
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Add Topping: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese in the slow cooker. Cover it up again and continue cooking until the top is golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Once cooked, let the mac and cheese sit briefly before serving. Optionally, you can top with freshly cracked pepper or sprinkle some herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Optional: For added nutrition, serve it with a simple side salad.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli?
Picture a delightful table set for fall, where warm, cheesy goodness meets fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite.
- Seasonal Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, apples, and walnuts drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites balance the richness of the mac and cheese, adding delicious earthy flavors to your meal.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these sticks offer a satisfying dip into the creamy cheese sauce, enhancing the comfort food experience.
Pair with a crisp, cold apple cider to cleanse your palate, or serve a warm pumpkin spice dessert for an extra touch of seasonal sweetness!
Expert Tips for Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli
• Perfect Pasta Texture: Always cook the elbow macaroni until al dente to prevent it from turning mushy during the slow cooker process.
• Crunchy Topping: For the crispiest breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and add the topping about 30 minutes before serving for optimal crunch.
• Cheese Variety: Don’t hesitate to mix different cheeses, such as gouda or pepper jack, to create unique flavor profiles for your Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli.
• Grease Smartly: Properly greasing the crockpot is essential for easy removal of the macaroni and cheese and hassle-free cleanup.
• Broccoli Bliss: If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid extra moisture, which can affect the dish’s creaminess.
Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity with these delightful twists that can elevate your Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli into something uniquely your own!
- Pasta Shape: Swap elbow macaroni for cavatappi or shells for a fun texture change that still holds onto that creamy sauce.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits for an extra protein kick and a savory flavor explosion.
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a colorful nutrient boost that’s equally delicious.
- Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese varieties such as gouda or pepper jack for exciting flavor notes, or go vegan with nutritional yeast for a cheese-like experience.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
- Spice it Up: Jazz up the dish by adding a dash of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a delightful kick that’ll warm your spirit.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can infuse the dish with aromatic layers and vibrant freshness.
- Creamy Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with a combination of cashew cream or sour cream for a different richness while maintaining that creamy texture.
How to Store and Freeze Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mac and cheese in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry to restore creaminess.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pasta and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and cooling them, then storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the cheese sauce ingredients and refrigerate that mixture for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything in the slow cooker, cook on low for 2-3 hours, and add the breadcrumb topping about 30 minutes before the dish finishes cooking. This way, you’ll enjoy a stress-free meal with just as much comfort and flavor on those busy weeknights!
Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets with a firm texture and no dark spots or yellowing. Fresh broccoli enhances the dish’s flavor and nutritional value. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s of high quality with minimal ice crystals.
How should I store leftovers of Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli?
For storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it tightly. This will help maintain its creamy texture when reheating.
Can I freeze Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli?
Yes, you can! To freeze, cool the mac and cheese completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Consider adding a splash of milk during reheating to restore moisture.
What should I do if my mac and cheese is too dry after cooking?
If your Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli turns out dry after cooking, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit of milk or extra heavy cream as you reheat it. This will help rejuvenate the creaminess. If you’re cooking from scratch and notice it’s dry while cooking, you can add a little more milk to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
While this Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli is generally loved, be mindful of dietary restrictions. It contains dairy, so if lactose intolerant, consider using lactose-free dairy products. Additionally, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to cater to gluten sensitivities. Always check for allergies and adapt ingredients accordingly!
Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the Crockpot: Grease the interior of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water for around 6-8 minutes until it's al dente. Drain it well and set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Cut fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets or thaw out frozen broccoli and make sure to drain it well.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Add the cooked macaroni, broccoli, cheese, milk, heavy cream, mustard, and spices. Stir until fully combined.
- Cook Slow: Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and any remaining cheddar cheese.
- Add Topping: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Cover and continue cooking until golden brown.
- Serve: Let sit briefly before serving. Optionally top with cracked pepper or herbs.