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Broccoli Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese




Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese (8 servings)




**Ingredients:**


- Elbow Macaroni: 1 lb (16 oz)

- Broccoli Florets: 4 cups (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces

- Butter: 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick)

- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup

- Milk: 4 cups (1 quart)

- Heavy Cream: 1 cup

- Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups (16 oz), shredded

- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated

- Salt: 2 teaspoons (adjust to taste)

- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon

- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon

- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon

- Mustard Powder: 1 teaspoon (optional)

- Panko Bread Crumbs: 1 cup (optional, for topping)

- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (optional, for topping)


Instructions:


1. **Cook the Pasta:**

- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta.

- Drain the pasta and broccoli, and set aside.


2. **Make the Cheese Sauce:**

- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.

- Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux.

- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

- Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.


3. **Add the Cheese and Seasonings:**

- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

- Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder (if using). Mix well.


4. **Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:**

- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated with the cheese sauce.


5. **Optional Topping:**

- If you prefer a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.

- In a small bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with olive oil until the crumbs are evenly coated.

- Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.

- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.


6. **Serve:**

- Serve the broccoli cheddar mac and cheese hot, straight from the pot or baking dish.


Tips for Success:


- **Cheese Choice:** For the best flavor, use a good-quality sharp cheddar cheese. You can also mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added depth.

- **Even Heating:** Make sure to whisk the milk and cream mixture continuously to avoid burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- **Freshness:** Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.


Enjoy your creamy and delicious Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese!

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