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Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe

Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 25 reviews

This Cozy Autumn Mac & Cheese with Broccoli is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for chilly fall evenings. Combining sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses with tender broccoli florets, infused with subtle smoky and spicy notes, this slow-cooked mac and cheese is topped with a crunchy, golden breadcrumb mixture baked to perfection in the crockpot.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

Cheese and Dairy

  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for some heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserved for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the interior of your crockpot with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for about 5 minutes until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, add cooked macaroni, broccoli florets, 3 cups cheddar cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  4. Cook Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking to the crookpot’s sides or bottom and to evenly distribute flavors.
  5. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and the reserved 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese to create a crispy, flavorful topping.
  6. Add Topping: About 30 minutes before serving, evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top of the mac and cheese. Cover the crockpot again and continue cooking until the topping turns golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve: Remove the lid and let the dish sit for a few minutes to set. Serve warm, optionally garnished with freshly cracked pepper or fresh herbs for an added touch of freshness.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen broccoli depending on availability; both work well.
  • For extra flavor, experiment with adding a teaspoon of smoked gouda or parmesan cheese.
  • If you prefer spicier, increase cayenne pepper slightly or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with extra milk or a low-fat alternative.
  • Stir occasionally during cooking to avoid the mac and cheese sticking to the crockpot.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: autumn mac and cheese, crockpot mac and cheese, broccoli mac and cheese, slow cooker recipes, comfort food, fall recipes, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/cozy-autumn-mac-and-cheese-with-broccoli-recipe/