Green Goddess Broccoli Mac Cheese Seriously Good Greens

Recipe Introduction: Say Hello to Green Goddess Broccoli Mac & Cheese!

Fancy a bit of comfort food with a healthy twist? Honestly, who doesn't love a good Mac Cheese ? But what if you could sneak in some extra greens and make it taste amazing?

Quick Hook

Ever wondered if Healthy Mac and Cheese could actually exist? This Green Goddess Mac and Cheese recipe is the answer! It is bursting with fresh herb flavours and that creamy, cheesy goodness we all crave.

Brief Overview

This Green Goddess Pasta dish takes inspiration from classic American comfort food and gives it a vibrant, California inspired makeover. It's an easy recipe that takes about 45 minutes to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

This recipe yields 6 servings, so plenty to share or have leftovers for lunch.

Main Benefits

One of the best things is that all the Green Food is packed with vitamins and fibre. Plus, it's a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

Seriously, you could serve Broccoli Mac and Cheese to everyone. It’s the perfect way to get your kids (and yourself!) to eat more vegetables.

It is the ideal Comfort Food with Vegetables .

Ready to transform your usual Mac and Cheese Recipe ? Let's dive into the ingredient list!

Ingredients & Equipment: Get Ready to Cook!

Ready to dive into this crazy good Green Goddess Mac and Cheese Recipe ? First, let's gather our troops! Don’t worry, you probably have most of this already.

Main Ingredients for your Green Goddess Mac and Cheese Recipe

Here's what you'll need, broken down for easy peasy prep:

• Green Goddess Sauce:

  • Mayonnaise: 1 cup (237ml) . Go full fat for the best flavour, honestly!
  • Sour cream (or Greek yogurt): ½ cup (118ml) .
  • Fresh parsley leaves: ½ cup (packed, 15g) .
  • Fresh basil leaves: ¼ cup (packed, 7.5g) .
  • Fresh chives: ¼ cup (packed, 7.5g) , chopped.
  • Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , freshly squeezed.
  • Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
  • Anchovy paste: 1 teaspoon (trust me on this one!).
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon .
  • Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon .
  • Water: 2 tablespoons (30ml) or more.

• Mac & Cheese Time:

  • Elbow macaroni: 1 pound (454g) . Shells work too!
  • Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons (57g) .
  • All-purpose flour: ¼ cup (30g) .
  • Whole milk: 3 cups (710ml) .
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon .
  • Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon .
  • Nutmeg: A pinch.
  • Sharp Cheddar cheese: 4 cups (400g) , shredded.
  • Monterey Jack cheese: 1 cup (100g) , shredded.
  • Broccoli: 1 large head (approx. 500g) , into florets.

For the cheese, get the good stuff! Good Sharp Cheddar makes all the difference for the Green Goddess Pasta . Pre-shredded? Nah.

It’s better to grate it yourself. It melts better, you know?

Seasoning Notes for Green Goddess Mac and Cheese

Okay, so the Green Goddess sauce is the star here. Basil, parsley, chives, lemon... it is such a Green Food combination! The anchovy paste adds a depth you wouldn't believe.

If you're freaked, just skip it.

Nutmeg in the cheese sauce is a must . Just a pinch elevates the whole Green Goddess Mac and Cheese game. Don't skip it!

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need fancy stuff for this Broccoli Mac and Cheese .

• Big pot for pasta.
• Colander to drain.
• Saucepan for the cheese sauce.
• Whisk (essential!).
• Blender or food processor for the Green Goddess.
• A 9x13 inch baking dish, if you're baking it.

No blender? Chop those herbs super fine!

Making this Healthy Mac and Cheese is easier than you think. So, go on get cooking! This Comfort Food with Vegetables will blow your mind!

Green Goddess Broccoli Mac & Cheese: Your New Comfort Food!

Alright, grab your aprons because we're making Green Goddess Broccoli Mac Cheese ! I know, I know, you’re thinking "healthy" and "mac and cheese" don't belong in the same sentence.

But trust me on this! This isn't your average Mac Cheese . This Green Food version is packed with flavour and nutrients.

My friend always used to say, "Life is too short for boring pasta!" and this recipe proves that point perfectly.

Let's go!

Prep Like a Pro

Essential mise en place? Absolutely. First, get your ingredients prepped. Chop your broccoli into small florets. Mince that garlic and measure out your cheeses.

Time saving tip? Make the Green Goddess sauce ahead of time. Honestly, it gets even better as the flavours meld together.

You can use the blender, or you can chop the herbs by hand.

Safety reminder? Remember to use oven mitts.

Cooking Process step-by-step

Ready to get down to business?

1. First, cook your macaroni until al dente. Drain it and set it aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, steam those broccoli florets until tender crisp. Don't overcook them!
3. Next, make the cheese sauce . Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Whisk in ¼ cup flour and cook for 1- 2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk. Simmer for 5 minutes , stirring.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 4 cups Sharp Cheddar and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Now, it's time to mix everything together . Stir in the pasta, Green Goddess sauce, and broccoli.
7. Optional: Pour into a baking dish and bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 15- 20 minutes .

Pro Tips for the Perfect Green Goddess Mac and Cheese Recipe

Want to level up your Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe ? Here are a few of my favorite tricks.

Firstly, don't skip the nutmeg! Just a pinch adds a warm, subtle flavour that complements the cheese perfectly. My gran always taught me that one.

Secondly, don't overcook your pasta. Al dente is key for a nice texture. Thirdly, If you want a Healthy Mac and Cheese , use whole wheat pasta or add even more broccoli.

And for the last point, if you are looking for Comfort Food with Vegetables , then go on and add other green vegetables

It's amazing how this Green Goddess Pasta can transform such a simple dish. This Green Goddess Mac and Cheese is guaranteed to become a new family favorite.

Recipe Notes: Making This Green Goddess Mac and Cheese Recipe Your Own

Right then, let's talk about making this Green Goddess Mac and Cheese totally you . I've made this so many times. Honestly, no two batches are exactly the same.

Serving Up Some Deliciousness

• Plating Like a Pro: Presentation matters, right? I love serving this Green Goddess Pasta in individual bowls with a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar on top. A few fresh basil leaves? Chef's kiss . Trust me, your family will love Broccoli Mac and Cheese .
• Sidekicks: Fancy a bit of extra crunch? A side salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Or for a heartier meal, a bit of grilled chicken. Honestly, a crisp glass of Pinot Grigio goes down a treat too. It's all about that balance, you know?

Storage Sorted!

• Fridge Rules: Got leftovers? No worries! This mac cheese keeps brilliantly in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it's in an airtight container.
• Freezing Frenzy: Yep, you can freeze it! Though, fair warning, the texture might change a tiny bit. I'd recommend freezing in individual portions for easy lunches.
• Reheating Realness: When reheating, a splash of milk is your best friend. It brings the sauce back to that super creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe consistency. Microwave or oven whatever floats your boat!

Variations: Get Creative!

• Dietary Swaps: Need a dairy-free version? Use plant based milk and cheese alternatives! It's surprisingly easy. Also you can easily adapt Healthy Mac and Cheese for a vegan audience.
• Seasonal Switch Ups: Don't have broccoli? No sweat! Cauliflower works great. Or, in the summer, peas or even spinach adds a lovely touch of Green Food .

Nutrition Nuggets

• Keep It Simple: It's got your carbs, your protein, and a healthy dose of veggies. Think of it as a way to sneak in some extra greens, and a little Comfort Food with Vegetables
• The Good Stuff: The Green Goddess sauce adds a load of fresh herbs, which are packed with vitamins. A tasty way to feel good about your meal!

So there you have it! Don't be afraid to experiment and have some fun with This Green Goddess Mac and cheese, it's a real winner in the kitchen! It’s also a sure fire way to get your greens in (a bit like getting kids to eat their vegetables, lol!).

You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Green Goddess Mac and ahead of time? I'm channeling my inner Monica Geller and want to be super prepared!

Absolutely! You can assemble the Green Goddess Mac and Cheese (up to the point of baking, if you're planning to bake it) a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce up a bit, as it tends to thicken overnight.

I'm not a huge fan of broccoli. What other veggies work well in this Green Goddess Broccoli Mac & Cheese?

No worries, not everyone's a broccoli enthusiast! Cauliflower is a great alternative, as it has a similar texture and neutral flavour. You could also use peas for a touch of sweetness, or spinach for a boost of nutrients. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, so your chosen veggie is tender crisp.

My Green Goddess sauce seems a bit thick. How can I thin it out?

Easy fix! Add a tablespoon or two of water at a time and blend until you reach your desired consistency. You can also use a little extra lemon juice for both thinning and a bit of extra tang, or even a splash of milk. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning after thinning.

I'm trying to be a bit healthier. Can I make this mac and cheese lighter without sacrificing flavour?

Definitely! Swap the full fat mayonnaise and sour cream in the Green Goddess sauce for plain Greek yogurt. It adds a lovely tang! You could also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Finally, load up on the broccoli (or other veggies) to increase the nutritional value and feel less guilty enjoying this comfort food.

What's the best way to store leftover This Green Goddess Mac and Cheese? Will it still be good the next day?

Leftovers are a gift! Store the mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the sauce to prevent it from drying out. You can microwave it, or reheat it in a saucepan over low heat for the best texture.

Can I add a little kick to my This Green Goddess Mac and Cheese? I'm looking for that Rachel Green level of experimentation in the kitchen!

Absolutely! A pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce is a great way to add a touch of heat. You could also incorporate a finely chopped jalapeño into the Green Goddess sauce for a more pronounced kick. Start small and taste as you go, you can always add more but it's hard to take away!