A Comforting Classic: One-Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese to bring comfort to your day. This One-Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese combines the beloved flavors of creamy pasta, crisp bacon, and fresh broccoli, creating a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is special because it brings the classic taste of mac and cheese to a new level, all in just one pot.
“This recipe transformed my family’s dinner night. The bacon adds a savory twist, and the broccoli makes it feel a bit healthier!” — A satisfied reader.
Why you’ll love this dish
Making this One-Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a game changer for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly convenient. With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze. Additionally, the combination of savory bacon and nutritious broccoli means you can satisfy the whole family while sneaking in some greens.
Whether you’re rushing home after a long day or planning a cozy family brunch, this dish fits the bill perfectly. It’s also an excellent choice for a comforting holiday meal, ensuring that everyone leaves the table with a smile.
Step-by-step overview
This delightful recipe is quick and straightforward, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how we’ll whip it up:
- Cook the bacon until crisp.
- Create a creamy sauce using flour, butter, and milk.
- Add water and macaroni to the pot, cooking until al dente.
- Steam the broccoli, then combine all the ingredients with melted cheese for a creamy finish.
Now, let’s gather everything we need!
What you’ll need
Gather these items to make your One-Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese:
- 8 slices uncooked center cut bacon (chopped)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons light butter (I prefer Land O’Lakes light butter spread with canola oil)
- 1 ½ cups skim milk
- 2 ½ cups water
- 12 oz dry whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 3 ½ cups broccoli florets
- 6 oz 50% reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, I use Cabot)
Feel free to substitute ingredients to fit your preferences, such as using gluten-free pasta or vegan cheese for a different take!
Directions to follow
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
Cook the Bacon: In a 5 QT Dutch oven or large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s crispy. When done, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain, then discard the excess grease and wipe the pot clean.
Make the Base: In a small bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper. Next, place the butter in the pot over medium heat. Once melted, gradually whisk in the flour mixture until combined.
Add Liquid: Slowly whisk in the skim milk until smooth, then add water and scrape any browned bits from the pot.
Cook the Pasta: Increase the heat to medium-high, stirring occasionally until the mixture boils. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the macaroni. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Broccoli: While the pasta cooks, put the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 2 minutes until just tender.
Combine Everything: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cheese until it melts into the sauce. Finally, add the cooked broccoli and bacon, mixing everything until well combined.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and enjoy your delicious dish!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving this One-Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese can be a fun experience. For a pleasing presentation, serve in wide bowls or on colorful plates. A sprinkle of extra cheese or crisp bacon on top can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Pair your mac and cheese with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside a zesty garlic bread for added flavor!
Storage and reheating tips
Storing your One-Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese is straightforward:
- Refrigeration: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze it! Make sure to place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, enjoy the leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the pasta seems dry.
Always practice safe food handling by allowing leftovers to cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to elevate your cooking experience:
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or a mix of cheeses for depth.
- Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or even diced ham work well too.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the cheese with a plant-based cheese and the butter with vegan margarine for a dairy-free version.
Creative twists
Looking to mix things up? Here are a few variations you can try:
- Spicy Addition: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper for a spicy twist.
- Green Boost: Throw in spinach or kale along with the broccoli for even more nutrients.
- Herbed Delight: Fresh herbs such as thyme or chives can add aromatics and flavor.
Common questions
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, any small pasta shape like shells or penne will work.
How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently for best results.
With this One-Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese, you don’t only create a meal; you create memories. Enjoy cooking and savoring every cheesy bite!
Print
One-Pot Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Pork
Description
A comforting bowl of mac and cheese with bacon and broccoli, easy to make in just one pot.
Ingredients
- 8 slices uncooked center cut bacon (chopped)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons light butter
- 1 ½ cups skim milk
- 2 ½ cups water
- 12 oz dry whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 3 ½ cups broccoli florets
- 6 oz 50% reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain and discard excess grease.
- Make the base by mixing flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Melt the butter in the pot and whisk in the flour mixture.
- Add skim milk, whisking until smooth. Then, add water and scrape the bottom of the pot.
- Cook the pasta by increasing heat to medium-high until boiling. Reduce heat to medium-low, add macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes.
- Prepare the broccoli by microwaving florets for 2 minutes until tender.
- Combine the cooked pasta with cheese until melted, then add broccoli and bacon, mixing well.
- Serve and enjoy your dish!
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute cheese with plant-based cheese and butter with vegan margarine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American