Baked Macaroni And Cheese With Broccoli Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Macaroni And Cheese With Broccoli

• 1 pound macaroni pasta
• Table Salt
• 1 large head of broccoli florets (about 2 cups)
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• Fresh Breadcrumb
• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Skim Milk
• All Purpose Flour
• Diced Onion
• Low Fat Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Dijon Mustard
• Black Pepper

How to Make Baked Macaroni And Cheese With Broccoli

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a shallow 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Cook 1 pound of macaroni pasta in a large pot of lightly salted boiling water according to package directions. Add 1 large head of broccoli florets (about 2 cups) to the boiling water 3 minutes before the pasta is done.
4. Drain the pasta and broccoli thoroughly and return them to the pot.
5. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) of unsalted butter over medium heat.
6. Add 1 cup of panko bread crumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until light golden brown, about 2 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and transfer the crumbs to a small bowl.
8. Stir in 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese and set aside.
9. In the same saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of whole milk and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour until smooth.
10. Add 1/2 of a medium yellow onion, finely chopped.
11. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, whisking constantly.
12. Reduce heat to low and simmer, whisking frequently, until the sauce has thickened, about 2 minutes.
13. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
14. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and broccoli.
15. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated.
16. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
17. Sprinkle the top evenly with the bread crumb mixture.
18. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and golden brown on top.
19. Let cool slightly before dividing into 8 servings.