Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Indulge in a healthier version of a classic comfort food with this skinny baked broccoli macaroni and cheese recipe. It's a creamy, savory and slightly crunchy dish that's packed with flavor, yet lower in calories. This recipe incorporates fresh broccoli adding a nutritious twist to traditional mac and cheese. It's the perfect meal for those seeking comfort with a dash of nutritional goodness.

Photos of Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in homes, such as milk, flour, and cheese. However, a crucial ingredient is Cabot 50% reduced-fat sharp cheese. This cheese can be found in most supermarkets in the cheese aisle. It's chosen for its great flavor and reduced-fat content, keeping the dish light and healthy. Don't forget fresh broccoli florets, they add a burst of color and a serving of vegetables to your meal.

Ingredients For Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni And Cheese

Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape for macaroni and cheese. Its tubular shape holds the cheese sauce well.

Butter: Used to sauté the onions and create a roux with flour which helps thicken the sauce.

Onion: Adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.

Flour: Used to create a roux with butter that thickens the sauce.

Skim milk: Helps create a lighter and lower calorie cheese sauce.

Chicken broth: Adds flavor to the sauce.

Cabot 50% reduced-fat sharp cheese: Provides the cheesy flavor with less fat.

Salt and fresh pepper: Season to taste.

Fresh broccoli florets: Adds a nutritious and crunchy element to the dish.

Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, umami flavor to the dish.

Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy topping to the macaroni and cheese.

Cooking spray: Prevents the macaroni and cheese from sticking to the baking dish.

One reader, Dominic Russell says:

This skinny baked broccoli macaroni and cheese recipe is a game-changer! It's a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies my cravings without the extra calories. The creamy cheese sauce and tender broccoli make for a delightful combination. It's a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier take on a classic comfort food.

Dominic Russell

Techniques Required

How to cook pasta and broccoli together: Boil a large pot of salted water and add the pasta and broccoli. Cook according to the package directions for al dente, then drain and set aside.

How to make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet, then add onion and cook until softened. Stir in flour and cook until golden. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, then bring to a boil. Cook until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and stir in the cheese until melted.

How to bake the macaroni and cheese: Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared dish, top with grated cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake for 15-20 minutes. Broil for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden.

How To Make Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

Feed your kids veggies with our broccoli macaroni and cheese recipe. Baked to perfection, this mac ‘n cheese is healthy and lightened for less calories!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozelbow macaroni,high fiber, like Ronzoni Smart Taste
1½tbspbutter
¼cuponion,minced
¼cupflour
2cupsskim milk
1cupchicken broth,fat-free, or vegetable broth
2cupsCabot 50% Reduced-Fat Sharp
salt and fresh pepper,to taste
12ozfresh broccoli florets,or pre-cut
2tbspParmesan cheese,grated
¼cupbreadcrumbs,seasoned
cooking spray

Instructions

Cook the pasta and broccoli together in a large pot of salted water, according to package directions for al dente.
Spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
In a large, heavy skillet, melt the butter.
Add the onion, then cook over low heat for about 2 minutes.
Add the flour and cook another 1 minute, or until the flour is golden and well combined.
Add the milk and chicken broth, then whisk, raising the heat to medium-high until it comes to a boil.
Cook for about 5 minutes or until the sauce becomes smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Once the sauce is thick, remove from heat.
Add the cheese, then mix well until cheese is melted.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste, then add the cooked macaroni and broccoli. Mix well.
Pour into prepared baking dish, then top with grated cheese and breadcrumbs.
Spray a little more cooking spray on top.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, then broil for a few minutes to get the breadcrumbs golden.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 282.20kcal
Fat: 6.34g
Saturated Fat: 2.25g
Trans Fat: 0.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.15g
Carbohydrates: 44.91g
Fiber: 1.85g
Sugar: 5.06g
Protein: 11.50g
Cholesterol: 9.44mg
Sodium: 458.79mg
Calcium: 195.05mg
Potassium: 395.71mg
Iron: 1.31mg
Vitamin A: 171.86µg
Vitamin C: 40.68mg

Technique Tip for Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

When making the cheese sauce for the macaroni and cheese, it's important to add the flour gradually while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. This process, known as making a roux, is the foundation for many creamy sauces. Also, when adding the cheese, ensure the heat is low to prevent the cheese from burning or becoming grainy. Lastly, don't forget to season your sauce well with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Skinny Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Prep ahead: Chop the broccoli and onion in advance to save time during the cooking process.

One-pot cooking: Cook the pasta and broccoli together in the same pot to minimize cleanup and save time.

Multi-task: While the macaroni and broccoli are cooking, prepare the cheese sauce to streamline the process.

Bake in advance: Consider making the dish ahead of time and refrigerating it until ready to bake, saving time on the day of serving.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to eliminate the time-consuming step of grating the cheese yourself.

Quick broil: Keep a close eye on the broiling process to ensure the breadcrumbs turn golden without burning, saving time and preventing overcooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

elbow macaroni - Substitute with whole wheat elbow macaroni: Whole wheat elbow macaroni is a healthier alternative with more fiber and nutrients.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and adds a delicious flavor to the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish.
skim milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk is a lower calorie alternative and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a suitable vegetarian alternative and adds a rich flavor to the dish.
cabot 50% reduced-fat sharp - Substitute with reduced-fat cheddar cheese: Reduced-fat cheddar cheese provides a similar flavor with less fat.
fresh broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower can be a great substitute for broccoli and provides a similar texture and taste.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and is a great vegan alternative to parmesan cheese.
breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier texture and are lighter than traditional breadcrumbs.

Presentation Tips for Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

Elevate the plating: Create a visually stunning presentation by arranging the macaroni and cheese in a sophisticated and artistic manner on the plate, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with finely chopped fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the overall presentation.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a textural contrast by adding a delicate sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top of the macaroni and cheese, providing a delightful crunch alongside the creamy texture.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the dish in elegant, high-quality serving ware such as porcelain or ceramic dishes to enhance the visual appeal and elevate the dining experience.
Accentuate with a drizzle: Add a subtle drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the macaroni and cheese to impart a luxurious sheen and a hint of richness to the dish.
Emphasize the broccoli: Strategically place the vibrant broccoli florets on top of the macaroni and cheese, ensuring they are showcased as a focal point, highlighting their freshness and adding visual interest.
Incorporate a touch of color: Consider incorporating a vibrant element, such as a small side salad or a garnish of edible flowers, to introduce a pop of color and enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the dish is meticulously arranged with precision and attention to detail, reflecting a high level of culinary expertise.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Skinny Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the macaroni and broccoli together.
Baking dish: A baking dish is needed to bake the macaroni and cheese in the oven.
Skillet: A large, heavy skillet is used to melt the butter and cook the onion and flour for the cheese sauce.
Whisk: A whisk is used to combine the flour, milk, and chicken broth for the cheese sauce.
Grater: A grater is used to grate the cheese for the macaroni and cheese.
Cooking spray: Cooking spray is used to grease the baking dish and to spray on top of the macaroni and cheese before baking.
Oven: An oven is necessary to bake the macaroni and cheese dish.

How To Store / Freeze Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

Allow the baked macaroni and cheese to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to soggy breadcrumbs and a watery texture.
To store leftovers in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled macaroni and cheese to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the macaroni and cheese to prevent a skin from forming.
- Seal the container or bag tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze leftovers for longer storage:
- Divide the cooled macaroni and cheese into individual portions or freeze the entire batch in a freezer-safe baking dish.
- If using a baking dish, cover the surface of the macaroni and cheese with a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
- If freezing individual portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then place in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated leftovers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the desired amount of macaroni and cheese to an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through, removing the foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp up the breadcrumbs.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.
To reheat frozen leftovers:
- If reheating an entire frozen batch, transfer the frozen macaroni and cheese to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, follow the reheating instructions for refrigerated leftovers.
- For individual frozen portions, you can reheat them directly from the freezer in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. Be aware that the texture may be slightly different compared to freshly baked macaroni and cheese.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover macaroni and cheese in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
For a quicker method, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the macaroni and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help maintain moisture. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your desired temperature.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the macaroni and cheese on the stovetop. Transfer the leftovers to a saucepan and add a splash of milk or chicken broth. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it's warmed through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat, as this may cause the sauce to separate.
For a crispy top, after reheating the macaroni and cheese using any of the above methods, transfer it to an oven-safe dish (if not already in one). Sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs and grated cheese on top, then place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
If you find that your reheated macaroni and cheese is a bit dry, try adding a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream to individual portions. This will help to restore creaminess and add a tangy flavor that complements the sharp cheddar cheese.

Random Fact About Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

The recipe contains broccoli, a nutritious vegetable high in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to the dish.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This skinny baked broccoli macaroni and cheese recipe is a cost-effective option for households. The use of affordable ingredients such as elbow macaroni, broccoli florets, and skim milk makes it budget-friendly. The addition of chicken broth and sharp reduced-fat cheese may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. The dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, earning a solid 8/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical and satisfying choice.

Is This Skinny Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Healthy?

This baked broccoli macaroni and cheese recipe has some healthy elements, but it also has room for improvement. Here's a breakdown:

Healthy aspects:

Using reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese helps lower the overall fat content
Incorporating broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish
Using skim milk and chicken broth reduces the calorie and fat content compared to using whole milk or cream

Less healthy aspects:

The recipe still contains a significant amount of cheese, which is high in saturated fat and sodium
Using refined elbow macaroni instead of a whole grain variety reduces the fiber content
The breadcrumb topping adds extra calories and carbohydrates

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the elbow macaroni for a whole grain variety, such as whole wheat or quinoa pasta, to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
Reduce the amount of cheese used and opt for a sharper variety to maintain the cheesy flavor with less quantity
Include additional vegetables, such as diced carrots or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient content and add more texture and color to the dish
Replace the breadcrumb topping with a sprinkle of herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add flavor without the extra calories and carbohydrates
Use a light cooking spray instead of butter to sauté the onions, reducing the overall fat content

Editor's Thoughts on This Skinny Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

The recipe for skinny baked broccoli macaroni and cheese is a delightful and healthier twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and al dente macaroni creates a satisfying and flavorful dish. The use of reduced-fat cheese and skim milk helps to lighten the dish without sacrificing taste. The addition of breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch to the top, making it a perfect balance of textures. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful option for those looking for a lighter version of macaroni and cheese without compromising on flavor.

Enhance Your Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then roast until tender and crispy.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sauté carrots in a honey and thyme glaze until they are caramelized and tender, perfect for balancing out the cheesy mac and cheese.

Balsamic Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Marinate portobello mushrooms in balsamic vinegar and herbs, then grill until they are juicy and flavorful, adding a meaty element to the meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Skinny Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and colorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa. It's a great option for a light and satisfying meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: For a refreshing and tropical dessert, try making this mango coconut chia pudding. It's a simple yet delicious treat that's perfect for a hot summer day.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Skinny Baked Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delicious and elegant appetizer, try creating savory stuffed mushrooms. Fill each mushroom cap with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then bake until golden and bubbly. Your guests will love the combination of earthy mushrooms and savory filling.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Impress your guests with crispy coconut shrimp as a tasty appetizer option. Dip each shrimp in a seasoned batter, then coat with shredded coconut before frying to perfection. The result is a crunchy, flavorful appetizer that pairs perfectly with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy Decadent Chocolate Mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Velvety Vanilla Panna Cotta: Delight in the luxurious Velvety Vanilla Panna Cotta, a silky and delicate Italian dessert. Topped with a vibrant berry compote and fresh mint leaves, this elegant treat is sure to impress your guests.

Why trust this Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish, combining the creamy goodness of cabot 50% reduced-fat sharp with the wholesome goodness of broccoli florets. The use of skim milk and chicken broth not only enhances the flavor but also reduces the fat content. The addition of parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs provides a satisfying crunch, elevating the overall texture. With a perfect balance of flavors and a lighter approach to a beloved dish, this baked broccoli macaroni and cheese recipe is a trustworthy choice for a healthier, yet still indulgent, meal.

If you've tried this Skinny Baked Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese Recipe, we'd love to hear your feedback! Share your thoughts and experiences with this dish in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use whole milk instead of skim milk?

Yes, you can use whole milk instead of skim milk for a creamier texture and richer flavor in the macaroni and cheese.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Cheddar, gouda, or gruyere are all great options to try in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven until it's heated through.

Can I omit the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version?

Yes, you can omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to the macaroni and cheese?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as cauliflower, peas, or spinach to the macaroni and cheese for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cook them until they are tender before adding them to the dish.