Vegetarian dinner · American
Brussels Sprout Mac and Cheese
Creamy sharp-cheddar mac and cheese with deeply browned Brussels sprouts and a crisp mustard-panko topping.
Jump to recipe20 min prep · 35 min cook

Before you start
- Warm milk incorporates more smoothly into the roux and reduces lumps.
- Roasting the sprouts separately prevents a watery sauce.
Complete recipe
Brussels Sprout Mac and Cheese
6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 12 ounces Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, divided
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the oven to 425°F. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a sheet pan. Roast for 18 to 22 minutes, until browned.
- Cook macaroni in salted water for 2 minutes less than the package directs. Drain.
- Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in warm milk. Simmer until thick enough to coat a spoon, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in Dijon, cheddar, and half the Parmesan. Fold in pasta and roasted sprouts, then transfer to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
- Mix panko with remaining melted butter and Parmesan. Scatter on top and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, until bubbling and crisp.
Tips for the best results
- Warm milk incorporates more smoothly into the roux and reduces lumps.
- Roasting the sprouts separately prevents a watery sauce.
Make ahead, storage, and leftovers
Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat covered at 350°F with a splash of milk, then uncover to recrisp the topping.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make it ahead?
Assemble without the topping up to one day ahead; add panko just before baking and allow 10 extra minutes.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh sprouts brown best, but thawed frozen sprouts work if squeezed very dry first.