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Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli

Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli for Heartfelt Comfort

Indulge in Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli, a comforting dish that blends creamy cheeses, tender pasta, and vibrant broccoli for a nourishing meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Topping Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Feel free to interchange with any small pasta shape.
For the Broccoli
  • 2 cups Broccoli Fresh or frozen, ensure frozen is thawed and drained.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Any strong-flavored cheese can be swapped.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Avoid low-fat versions for optimal creaminess.
  • 1 cup Milk Any milk alternative can be used.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be a lighter substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard Can swap with any mustard or a dash of vinegar.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Substitute with fresh garlic if desired.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Shallots can be used for a fresher touch.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to personal heat preference.
  • to taste Salt Essential in enhancing all flavors.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust according to taste.
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Crushed crackers or panko can be used as alternatives.
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter Can substitute with olive oil or margarine.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Prepare the slow cooker by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water for about 5 minutes until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In the greased slow cooker, combine the cooked elbow macaroni, chopped broccoli, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until well combined.
  4. Cover and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. Melt butter in a small bowl and mix with breadcrumbs. This will be the crunchy topping.
  6. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
  7. Once done, allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 18gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 16gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Ensure macaroni is al dente and the slow cooker is well-greased for easy serving. You can adjust flavors and experiment with different cheeses as desired.

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