Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey that marries the comforting textures of macaroni and cheese with the vibrant flavors of broccoli! This Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Amish Cream of Broccoli Soup Macaroni is an easy, hearty dish perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family. Imagine a creamy, cheesy dish bubbling with warmth as it emerges from the oven, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss!
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cans cream of broccoli soup, undiluted
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to ensure easy serving later.
- Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out to create an even layer at the bottom.
- Next, add the cream of broccoli soup over the macaroni. Follow this with the milk and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, creating a rich, creamy mixture.
- Using a large spoon, stir everything together in the dish, ensuring the macaroni is well-coated and the soup and milk are beautifully blended. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil, stir the mixture gently, and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top for that extra cheesy goodness.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the top is hot and bubbly. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
Notes or Tips
For a little extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or black pepper to the dish. If you want to add some veggies, you can include cooked broccoli florets for a wonderful crunch and a burst of color. This dish is perfect for leftovers — simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal that tastes just as good the next day!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the simplicity of baking — just mix, cover, and let the oven do the work! The combination of the cream of broccoli soup and milk creates a velvety sauce that perfectly coats the macaroni while baking. Baking uncovered during the final minutes allows the cheese to melt beautifully and develop a tempting golden crust.
FAQ
Can I use whole grain or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute whole grain or gluten-free elbow macaroni. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! The cream of broccoli soup and cheddar cheese blend create a satisfying meal without any meat.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! You can freeze portions of this casserole in an airtight container for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
The Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Amish Cream of Broccoli Soup Macaroni is a wonderfully comforting dish that brings joy to any table. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a cheesy side at gatherings, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your loved ones, dish up generous servings, and enjoy the delightful flavors that this easy casserole offers!