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–+ servings
Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli

Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli for Ultimate Comfort

A warm and comforting dish combining creamy cheese and broccoli, perfect for cool autumn evenings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni
For the Broccoli
  • 2 cups Broccoli fresh or frozen
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded, optional
  • 2 cups Milk any type
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard optional
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika or cayenne pepper for heat
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter melted

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prep the Crockpot: Grease the interior of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter.
  2. 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.
  3. Prepare the Broccoli: Cut fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets or thaw out frozen broccoli and make sure to drain it well.
Cooking
  1. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Add the cooked macaroni, broccoli, cheese, milk, heavy cream, mustard, and spices. Stir until fully combined.
  2. Cook Slow: Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  3. Prepare Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and any remaining cheddar cheese.
  4. Add Topping: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Cover and continue cooking until golden brown.
  5. Serve: Let sit briefly before serving. Optionally top with cracked pepper or herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For added nutrition, serve with a simple side salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

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