One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

There’s something deeply comforting about a steaming bowl of mac and cheese: the warm, cheesy aroma that gently blankets the kitchen, the first spoonful where creamy cheese meets toothsome pasta, and the bright green pop and gentle bite of broccoli weaving freshness through every mouthful. This one-pot version tightens that embrace—rich, tangy extra-sharp cheddar balanced by Greek yogurt, with tender broccoli folded into every forkful. It’s a dish that smells like home and tastes like a hug.

This recipe is perfect when you want an easy weeknight dinner that feels special, a cozy weekend lunch, or a potluck contribution that disappears fast. It’s also a great bridge for feeding picky eaters more veggies without a fuss. If you enjoy playful mac-and-cheese mashups, you might like my savory meatloaf casserole take on mac and cheese too: best mac and cheese meatloaf casserole.

At a Glance

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 generous servings
Difficulty Level: Easy — one pot, straightforward technique

Nutritional Breakdown

Estimated nutrition per serving (recipe yields 4 servings). These are calculated from standard ingredient values using USDA FoodData Central and are rounded to sensible figures for home-cooking reference.

Calories: ~567 kcal
Protein: ~29 g
Carbohydrates: ~54 g
Fat: ~27 g
Fiber: ~3.5 g
Sodium: ~430 mg

Notes on accuracy: values are estimates based on typical whole milk, dry pasta, broccoli, cheddar cheese, plain Greek-style yogurt, and butter. Nutrient totals will vary with exact ingredient brands, whether you use broth vs. water, low-fat dairy, or different pasta types. For precision tailored to packaged items you use, consult the nutrition facts on your product or the USDA FoodData Central database.

Why You’ll Love It

Flavor & Texture: Extra-sharp cheddar delivers a bold, savory backbone while Greek yogurt adds a tangy silkiness that keeps the sauce glossy without overwhelming richness. Broccoli gives a light crunch and vegetal clarity to the dish—every bite is satisfying and balanced.
Speed & Ease: From stovetop to table in about 20 minutes, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup—perfect for weeknights.
Crowd-Friendly: Familiar comfort food with a healthy twist makes it ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or feeding hungry guests who ask for seconds.
Health Upside: You get fiber, vitamins C and K, and phytonutrients from broccoli; Greek yogurt boosts protein and keeps fat in check compared with heavier cream-based recipes.

How to Make One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1 + 1/2 cups water or broth (I like broth for more flavor)
8 oz (about 227 g) pasta of choice (elbow, shells, or small penne work well)
8–10 oz broccoli, finely chopped (crowns and stems both work)
2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 oz / 226 g)
1/4 cup plain Greek-style yogurt (about 60 g)
1 tbsp butter or ghee (optional)

Optional ingredients and substitutions

Use low-fat milk and low-fat Greek yogurt to reduce calories and fat.
Swap half the cheddar for Gruyère or fontina for a nuttier melt.
Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for deeper flavor.
For a dairy-free version, try a cashew-based sauce and nutritional yeast (see Variations).
Gluten-free pasta can replace regular pasta at a 1:1 ratio.

Directions

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, bring the 2 cups whole milk and 1 + 1/2 cups water or broth to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Add the 8 oz pasta and stir to separate pieces. Reduce heat so the liquid holds a low simmer; let cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Stir in the finely chopped 8–10 oz broccoli and continue to cook 2–3 minutes, until both pasta and broccoli are cooked to your liking (pasta should be al dente; broccoli bright green and tender-crisp).
Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the 2 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar, 1/4 cup plain Greek-style yogurt, and 1 tbsp butter or ghee (optional) until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Practical tips

Avoid overmixing after adding cheese—stir gently until melted to keep the sauce creamy rather than gluey.
If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of hot water or milk to loosen it; if too thin, return to low heat and simmer a minute while stirring.
Check pasta a minute or two before the suggested time—different shapes and brands vary in cook time.
For evenly cooked broccoli, chop it small and add it slightly before the pasta is fully done, as instructed.

Best Pairings

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness.
Garlic-roasted chicken or pan-seared salmon for protein-forward meals.
Bread: warm whole-grain rolls or garlic toast for dipping.
Drinks: light-bodied white wine (Pinot Grigio) or a citrusy iced tea; for cozy nights, a mug of herbal tea or coffee pairs nicely.
Serve as a side: This mac and cheese also functions as a hearty side to grilled sausages or roasted root vegetables.

Storing Leftovers

Room temperature: Do not leave cooked mac and cheese at room temperature for more than 2 hours (food safety guideline).
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: You can freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating; expect some texture changes (cheese can separate slightly).

Chef’s Advice

Cheese choice matters: extra-sharp cheddar gives strong flavor with less cheese; mixing cheeses (cheddar + Gruyère) improves melt and complexity.
Don’t overcook broccoli: small, tender pieces will cook quickly and keep a pleasing texture—avoid long simmering that turns it mushy.
To avoid gritty sauce, grate your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese (pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that affect melt).
Low and slow finishing: removing from heat before adding the bulk of the cheese prevents the dairy from scorching and keeps the sauce smooth.

Recipe Variations

Vegan Broccoli Mac: Use unsweetened oat milk or almond milk, add 1/2 cup pureed cashews (soaked and blended) or a prepared vegan cheese sauce, and a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for cheesy umami. Use gluten-free pasta if desired.
Protein Boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or canned white beans (rinsed) right before serving to add extra protein and make the dish more substantial.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika and a 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or stir in a spoonful of Sriracha to the finished pot for heat.
Cheesy Veggie Deluxe: Fold in frozen peas and roasted red peppers along with the broccoli for color and extra veg variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
A: Yes—use low-fat or 2% milk. The texture will be slightly lighter; consider adding a tablespoon of butter or 1–2 tablespoons of cream cheese if you want extra silkiness.

Q: My sauce turned grainy—what went wrong?
A: Overheating cheese or adding it to boiling liquid can cause proteins to separate. Always remove from high heat and stir in cheese off the burner. Also grate cheese from a block for better melt.

Q: Can I make this ahead and reheat?
A: Yes—store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk on the stove or microwave, stirring to restore creaminess.

Q: Is this suitable for kids and picky eaters?
A: Often yes—cheese and pasta are crowd-pleasers. Finely chopping or pureeing broccoli into the sauce helps hide the texture if needed.

Q: How do I make it lower sodium?
A: Use low-sodium broth or water, choose a low-sodium cheddar (or reduce the cheese amount), and skip added salt until after tasting.

Conclusion

If you’re craving comfort that’s both nourishing and fast, this one-pot healthy broccoli mac and cheese is an effortless winner—minimal prep, one pot to wash, and a satisfying balance of creamy cheese and bright veggies. Try it as written or explore the variations above, and share your photos and tips with the community. For another flavorful one-pot take that includes step-by-step visuals, see this One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe (with Video), and for a version that leans into nutrition-forward swaps, check out this One Pot Healthy Broccoli Mac and Cheese.