Broccoli and bacon mac and cheese
Savor the ultimate comfort food with this Broccoli and Bacon Mac and Cheese recipe! Made with gluten-free pasta, crispy bacon, fresh broccoli, and a creamy blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses, it's the perfect combination of flavor and nutrition. Whip up this delightful dish for a cozy dinner that's sure to impress!
- 27 Jan 2025
- Cook time 20 min
- Prep time 5 min
- 4 Servings
- 9 Ingredients
Broccoli and bacon mac and cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish. This recipe combines the creamy and cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the added flavors of savory bacon and nutritious broccoli. It's the perfect meal to satisfy your cravings while sneaking in some vegetables.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the gluten-free pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli together, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain.
- In the same skillet, melt the salted butter over medium heat.
- Add the finely diced onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- With the onions still in the skillet, sprinkle the whole-grain wheat flour over them and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and crispy bacon to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Gently toss everything together until well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious Broccoli and Bacon Mac and Cheese!
Tips:
- Ensure Gluten-Free Pasta Cooked Properly: Follow the package instructions closely for cooking the gluten-free pasta to achieve the best texture. Gluten-free pasta can sometimes overcook easily, so keep an eye on it.
- Blanch the Broccoli: For a vibrant green color and a perfect tender-crisp texture, quickly blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Cook Bacon Crispy: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy to add a satisfying crunch to your mac and cheese. Drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease.
- Create a Smooth Cheese Sauce: When making the cheese sauce, ensure to whisk continuously while adding the flour to the melted butter to avoid lumps. Gradually add the milk while stirring, and then slowly melt the cheeses into the sauce for a creamy consistency.
- Customize with Spices: Feel free to add spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or a dash of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for added flavor depth.
In just a few steps, you've created a mouthwatering broccoli and bacon mac and cheese that's sure to please any crowd. Perfect as a hearty weeknight meal or a special occasion treat, this dish beautifully balances indulgence with a touch of healthiness. Serve it hot and enjoy!
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 240 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 520kcal | 26% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 24g | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 33g | 9% |
| Fiber 2.00g | 5% |
| Sugar 4.41g | 4% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 33g | 37% |
| Saturated 16g | 52% |
| Cholesterol 90mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 240ug | 27% |
| Choline 50mg | 9% |
| Vitamin B1 0.25mg | 21% |
| Vitamin B2 0.43mg | 33% |
| Vitamin B3 3.11mg | 19% |
| Vitamin B6 0.29mg | 17% |
| Vitamin B9 33ug | 8% |
| Vitamin B12 1.17ug | 49% |
| Vitamin C 22mg | 24% |
| Vitamin E 0.53mg | 4% |
| Vitamin K 24ug | 20% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 450mg | 35% |
| Copper, Cu 0.09mg | 10% |
| Iron, Fe 0.79mg | 7% |
| Magnesium, Mg 45mg | 11% |
| Phosphorus, P 440mg | 35% |
| Potassium, K 380mg | 11% |
| Selenium, Se 30ug | 55% |
| Sodium, Na 860mg | 57% |
| Zinc, Zn 3.22mg | 29% |
| Water | |
| Water 140g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
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