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As the crisp air of autumn settles in, there's nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a homemade meal to embrace the season. The vibrant hues of falling leaves inspire not only a change in scenery but also a shift in our culinary cravings. As we transition from summer salads to hearty comfort foods, cozy autumn recipes take center stage. One dish that perfectly embodies the essence of this season is the Cozy Autumn Crockpot Mac & Broccoli.

Fall Crockpot Mac with Broccoli

As the weather turns cooler, warm up your evenings with a Cozy Autumn Crockpot Mac & Broccoli. This comforting dish combines creamy macaroni and cheese with nutritious broccoli for a meal that satisfies both hunger and cravings. Perfect for busy families, this simple crockpot recipe is easy to make—just set it and enjoy delicious flavors by dinnertime. Embrace the season with this heartwarming dish that brings everyone together around the table.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tablespoons melted butter (optional for breadcrumb topping)

Instructions
 

Prep the Crockpot: Begin by greasing the inside of your crockpot with a tablespoon of olive oil to help prevent the ingredients from sticking during cooking.

    Combine Ingredients: In the prepared crockpot, add the elbow macaroni, broccoli florets, vegetable broth, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the macaroni and broccoli are well-coated with the liquid and seasonings.

      Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Let it cook for approximately 3 to 4 hours, or until the macaroni is al dente and the broccoli is tender. Stir your mixture occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the sides.

        Add Cheese: Once the macaroni is cooked to your liking, incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the mixture. Stir vigorously until the cheeses have fully melted and formed a creamy sauce. For a thicker consistency, you can leave it on low for an additional 15-20 minutes.

          Optional Topping: If you’d like to add a crunchy topping, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the mac and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking; this will create a delightful contrast in texture.

            Serve: After everything is well-combined and creamy, give the dish a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 4 hours | 6 servings

                Presentation Tips: Serve in individual bowls and top with extra cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for visual appeal. Don’t forget a light drizzle of olive oil for added richness!