Bacon and Broccoli Mac & Cheese

By Anne545

This one-dish meal will win over adults and children alike. Substitute English peas or fresh spinach for the broccoli, if you prefer. (from Cooking Light, April 2012)

Ingredients

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 8 ounces uncooked rigatoni
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups 2% reduced-fat milk
• 2 ounces reduced-fat processed American cheese, cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 slices center-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup packed)

Preparation

Step 1

1. Steam broccoli 5 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain. Pat dry, and keep warm. Cook pasta in boiling water in a large saucepan for 8 minutes or until al dente; drain and keep warm. Wipe pan with paper towels, and return to medium heat. Melt butter in pan. Sprinkle flour over melted butter; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly with a whisk. Gradually add milk to the flour mixture in pan, and bring to a boil, stirring constantly with a whisk. Cook for 1 minute or until slightly thick, and remove from heat. Add American cheese; stir until smooth. Stir in sliced green onions and the remaining ingredients. Stir in broccoli and pasta; serve immediately.