Broccoli & Mushroom Mac and Cheese
By Chef Ollie Honderd
It’s officially broccoli season here in Georgia! Next week’s baskets are loaded up with broccoli as well as white button mushrooms from our favorite mushroom supplier, Orchard Valley.
This mac and cheese recipe is a hearty dish that will satisfy adults and kids alike. We love boxed mac and cheese, but taking that little extra time to make your own mac and cheese sauce really pays off here.
Pro tip – if you’re cooking for a crowd (or like lots of leftovers) double up on this recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli
- 1/2 lb button mushrooms, rinsed, stemmed & sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cup milk
- Pinch nutmeg
- Pinch cayenne
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2/3 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, swiss, parmesan – or a blend)
- 1/2 lb pasta
Overview
Prep/active Time
1 hour
Cook Time
15 minutes
Instructions
Step 1
Bring 2 quarts water to boil and add 1.5 tbsp salt. Cook pasta according to instructions.
Step 2
Cut broccoli into “sensible stalks” (about the size of your index finger) and steam until tender, about eight minutes. Remove from steamer and let cool completely, then chop into small pieces.
Step 3
Heat milk for two minutes in the microwave on medium power (should be slightly hot to the touch, but not boiling).
Step 4
Melt butter in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the mushrooms and sauté until they’ve released their juices and are well-browned (about 10 minutes). Then add garlic and sauté for another minute, until the garlic is just getting brown around the edges. Finally, add in your 2 tbsp flour and sauté for an additional minute.
Step 5
Add the milk slowly to the pan, whisking slightly and allowing it to thicken slightly before adding more. (add in two groups) Bring up to a simmer and turn off heat.
Step 6
Add the cayenne, nutmeg and salt. Taste it! Stir in cheese until fully incorporated.
Step 7
Combine sauce with cooked pasta in your largest mixing bowl (or – if you’re bold – right in the pan!)
Step 8
Sit back, relax, and eat up!
Notes
- Use this recipe as a guide.
- Adjust measurements and ingredients as necessary.
- Taste test as you go.
- Have fun in the kitchen!
Let us know if you make this recipe! Tag your photos with #freshharvestga on Instagram.
