Homemade Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Tuesday, December 25, 2013

Homemade Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

12 ounces high fiber pasta

1 1/2 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup minced onion

1/4 cup flour

2 cups skim milk

1 cup fat free chicken broth

2 cups reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese 

Salt and pepper to taste

12 ounces fresh broccoli florets 

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs

Cooking spray

Directions:

1. Cook broccoli and pasta together in a large pot of boiling, salted water. 

2. Spray a baking dish with cooking spray and preheat oven to 375 degrees. 

3. In a large, heavy skillet, melt butter. Add onion and cook over low heat for about 2 minutes. Add flour and cook for another minute, or until flour is golden brown and well combined. 

4. Add milk and chicken broth and whisk, raising heat to a medium-high until it comes to a boil. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the sauce becomes smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper. 

5. Once the sauce is thick, remove from heat, add cheese, and mix until cheese is melted and well mixed. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. 

6. Add cooked pasta and broccoli and mix well. 

7. Pour into prepared baking dish. Top with grated cheese and breadcrumbs. 

8. Bake 15-20 minutes. 

This healthy twist on a traditional meal is perfect to satisfy your cravings!

It's easy and freezes so well! 

Photo By:  Allie Grossman