Sharp White Mac and Cheese with Broccoli (High Protein) is not your average pasta dish. With a creamy, velvety sauce that combines the nuttiness of cashews and the richness of silken tofu, this mac and cheese offers an unexpected twist on a classic favorite. It’s packed with protein, thanks to the addition of the tofu, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Topped with vibrant green broccoli and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the taste buds.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Sharp White Mac and Cheese with Broccoli (High Protein)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Sharp White Mac and Cheese with Broccoli (High Protein)

Sharp White Mac and Cheese with Broccoli (High Protein)

When I first made this sharp white mac and cheese, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to whip up. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without the guilt, and trust me, even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist this creamy goodness. Dare I say, it’s a comfort food that brings a touch of healthiness into the mix. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making excuses to savor it on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep in just 10 minutes and cook in about 15 minutes for a speedy dinner.
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy sauce is rich and cheesy, with a hint of zest from lemon juice.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The beautiful combination of white cheese sauce and bright green broccoli will impress your family and friends.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and vegan, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup raw cashews: These nuts give the sauce its creaminess. Soaking them softens their texture. You can substitute with macadamia nuts for a different flavor.
12 ounces small pasta of choice: I used brown rice elbow noodles, but any small pasta like shells or penne works beautifully. Choose whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
2 heads broccoli, chopped into florets (about 6 cups florets): Fresh and vibrant, broccoli adds color and nutrition. You can swap it for spinach if that’s more your style.
1/2 cup water: This will help blend the sauce to the right consistency. Feel free to use plant-based milk for a creamier texture.
1 block (10.8oz) Mori Nu silken tofu: This tofu provides a silky smooth base for your cheese sauce while packing in protein. If you can’t find silken tofu, regular firm tofu will work in a pinch, just blend longer.
4 tablespoons nutritional yeast: For that cheesy flavor without the dairy, nutritional yeast is a must-have ingredient. It’s also packed with vitamins.
3 tablespoons lemon juice: A touch of acidity brightens the flavors beautifully. Fresh lemon juice is ideal, but bottled works in a pinch.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This adds a savory depth to the sauce. Use fresh onion instead if preferred.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A little garlic adds warmth. Fresh minced garlic can also elevate the flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste if needed.

How to Make Sharp White Mac and Cheese with Broccoli (High Protein)

Soak the cashews: Bring about 3 cups of water to a boil (I find my tea kettle works great for this). Pour the hot water over the raw cashews and let them soak for at least 5 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Cook your noodles and broccoli: In a pot of boiling water, cook the 12 ounces of pasta for about 5-6 minutes. Then, add the chopped broccoli florets and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until both are tender. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Blend the cheese sauce: Carefully drain the soaked cashews and discard the soaking water. Add them to a high-powered blender along with 1/2 cup fresh water, the 10.8 ounces of silken tofu, 4 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Blend until the mixture is silky and smooth.
Mix and serve: In the pot where the pasta and broccoli were cooked, return the drained noodles and broccoli. Pour in the creamy cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. If the pasta and broccoli have cooled, warm the mixture over low-medium heat until heated through. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storing & Reheating

If you have any leftovers (which might be hard to believe!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days. Make sure to use a glass or food-safe plastic container. You can even freeze this dish for up to 3 months—just let it cool completely before freezing. When reheating, pop it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or plant-based milk to refresh the creaminess.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t skip soaking the cashews! This step is crucial for a smooth sauce.
For an even creamier sauce, try blending the ingredients longer until fully smooth—texture matters here.
If you’d like a spicier kick, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during blending.
Experiment with different vegetables—spinach, peas, or even roasted red peppers can elevate this dish further.
This recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. Just prepare the components and mix the sauce with the pasta and veggies when ready to eat.

Dinner can be such a wonderful way to bring the family together, especially when you serve something as hearty and nourishing as sharp white mac and cheese with broccoli. This dish delivers all the comfort and melting goodness you desire while being friendly to your dietary needs. It’s a delightful balance of nutrition and taste that will surely become a staple in your home.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While I used brown rice elbow noodles, you can swap in any small pasta of your choice, such as gluten-free varieties, whole-grain pasta, or even chickpea pasta for some added protein.

What if I can’t find silken tofu?

If silken tofu isn’t available, regular firm tofu is a suitable substitute. Just make sure to blend it thoroughly until smooth, as it might take a bit longer to achieve the creamy texture.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. Adding a bit of water or plant milk when reheating can help restore creaminess.

How can I add more flavor to the cheese sauce?

Feel free to enhance the flavors by adding spices such as smoked paprika, a dash of mustard, or even a little nutritional yeast if you’d like a cheesier taste. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be wonderful additions!