One-Pot Turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this One-Pot Turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese is just what you need! This comforting meal brings together the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of turkey bacon and the freshness of broccoli. It’s a delightful balance that makes it perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even just a cozy night in.

What I love most about this recipe is that it’s easy to whip up in just one pot, which means less cleanup for you! Plus, it’s lightened up without sacrificing any flavor. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot wonder: Clean-up is a breeze because everything cooks in one pot!
• Family-friendly: With its cheesy goodness and crispy turkey bacon, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Quick and easy: Prep and cook in just 35 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings!
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with fiber from whole wheat pasta and fresh broccoli, it’s comfort food you can feel good about.
• Make ahead: You can easily prepare this ahead of time for meal prep or quick lunches!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this dish not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need to create your One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese:

For the Base

• 8 slices uncooked center cut  turkey bacon (chopped)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons light butter (I use Land O’Lakes light butter spread with canola oil)
• 1 ½ cups skim milk
• 2 ½ cups water

For the Pasta and Veggies

• 12 oz dry whole wheat elbow macaroni
• 3 ½ cups broccoli florets

For the Cheese

• 6 oz 50% reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (shredded; I use Cabot)

Variations

One of the best things about this One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Change the cheese: Swap out sharp cheddar for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Use turkey bacon: For a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

How to Make One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the  turkey Bacon

Start by placing the chopped turkey bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until it becomes crispy, stirring occasionally. This step not only adds flavor but also gives us some delicious turkey bacon grease to enhance our sauce later. Once crisp, transfer the  turkey bacon to paper towels to drain.

Step 2: Create the Sauce Base

In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, and flour. Melt the light butter in the same pot over medium heat. Gradually whisk in your flour mixture until well combined. Slowly add skim milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Finally, add water and scrape up any tasty bits from cooking the  turkey bacon. This builds layers of flavor!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Raise the heat to medium-high and stir occasionally until boiling. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and add your whole wheat elbow macaroni. Cook for about 8-10 minutes while stirring regularly to keep it from sticking.

Step 4: Prepare the Broccoli

While your pasta cooks, place broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for about 2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. This quick method helps retain nutrients while ensuring they’re ready when we combine everything.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once your pasta is perfectly cooked, lower the heat again and stir in your shredded cheese until melted into that creamy sauce we all adore! Finally, fold in both your broccoli florets and crispy turkey bacon pieces until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and serve hot for a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Enjoy your One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese! It’s truly comforting food at its best!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pot  Turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Making this One-Pot turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Use whole wheat pasta – This not only adds a nutty flavor but also boosts the nutritional value, making your mac and cheese a healthier option.
• Don’t skip the microwave for broccoli – Microwaving the broccoli slightly first ensures it retains its vibrant color and crunchy texture, adding both visual appeal and health benefits to your dish.
• Stir frequently while cooking – This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot, ensuring a creamy consistency without any burnt bits.
• Experiment with cheese – Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor; a blend of sharp cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack can give your mac and cheese an exciting twist!
• Make it ahead – This dish reheats well, so you can make it in advance for busy weeknights. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

How to Serve One-Pot Turkey  Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Serving this delicious One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – Chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can spice things up nicely.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – A toasted slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover cheesy goodness while adding a crunchy texture contrast.
• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the mac and cheese, providing a refreshing bite that enhances your meal.
• Steamed Green Beans – These tender-crisp green beans add color to your plate, along with essential nutrients that complement your pasta dish perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings additional flavor and nutrition to your table, making every bite wholesome.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese will not only be delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy each creamy bite with family or friends—it’s bound to become a favorite comfort food in no time!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese is a fantastic option for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or packed lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For best results, avoid freezing with broccoli added; you can add fresh broccoli when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on a low setting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

You’re likely to have a few questions about this delicious dish. Let’s dive into some common queries!

Can I make One-Pot Turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese without  Turkey bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute  bacon with turkey bacon or even omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Adding smoked paprika can give a similar flavor profile.

How can I customize my One-Pot Turkey  Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also try different types of cheese for various flavor experiences!

Is One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese healthy?

Yes! This recipe uses whole wheat pasta, light butter, and reduced-fat cheese, making it a lighter yet satisfying comfort food option perfect for family dinners.

How long does it take to prepare One-Pot  Turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

The total preparation time is about 35 minutes, including cooking. It’s quick enough for any weeknight meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful One-Pot  turkey Bacon Broccoli Mac and Cheese as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings everyone together. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!