Munch Through Monday...Broccoli and White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

With the cold weather approaching (or settling in), it's always nice to have a big, warm bowl of yummy comfort food for dinner. For some, that's mashed potatoes, for other's, it may be pasta. For me ... well ... it's both. But, this pasta dish just about does it for me: with white cheddar and broccoli (two of my favorites!) along with perfect macaroni, I'm ready to snuggle up on the couch, pop in Forrest Gump and chow down on this warm, delicious food.

Photo source: Pinterest

Broccoli and White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Recipe Source: The Craving Chronicals
Ingredients
3 cups frozen baby broccoli florets

1/2 pound elbow macaroni
1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 1/3 cups milk
4 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
2 ounces pepper jack cheese, grated
salt to taste

DirectionsMicrowave broccoli florets in a large, microwave safe bowl according to package instructions until tender (usually 4-5 minutes). Drain off any water and set aside.

Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add elbow macaroni. Boil according to directions until al dente. Drain.

Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a paste (roux). Cook 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste. Slowly pour in milk, whisking briskly to remove lumps. Continue cooking over medium heat, whisking constantly, until milk mixture thickens. Remove from heat and whisk in shredded cheese. Add salt to taste.

Add drained macaroni back to pot. Pour cheese sauce over macaroni, add broccoli, and stir to combine. Devour.