Beef and Broccoli Mac n Cheese

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheddar

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheddar lowers calories while maintaining flavor.

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthy fats, while margarine is often cheaper.

parmesan cheese

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Pecorino is a less expensive cheese that can still add flavor.

Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Season the beef with salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika. Stir to combine.

Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.

Sprinkle flour over the beef and broccoli mixture, stirring to coat evenly, and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in beef broth and milk, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and beef mixture, stirring well to combine.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with bread crumbs and grated parmesan cheese.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens