Baked Macaroni and Cheddar

1. 1

   Fill a large pot with water to reach a depth of 2 inches and bring to a boil.

2. 2

   Add the broccoli and cook one minute; drain and rinse with cold water.

3. 3

   Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and add the broccoli in an even layer.

4. 4

   Fill the same pot with salted water and bring to a boil.

5. 5

   Add the pasta and cook until al dente; drain.

6. 6

   Position the rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 400 degrees F. In the same pot melt 2 TBSP butter over medium heat.

7. 7

   Add the shallots and cook, stirring until softened, 3 to 4 minutes Stir in the flour for 1 minute.

8. 8

   Whisk in 1 cup more.

9. 9

   Whisk the cornstarch into the remaining 11/2 cups milk, then whisk the mixture into the pot.

10. 10

    Simmer, whisking until sauce thickens 2 to 3 minutes.

11. 11

    Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and 4 TBSP parmesan cheese.

12. 12

    Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the pasta.

13. 13

    Spoon the mixture over the broccoli.

14. 14

    In a small heat proof bowl, combine the garlic and remaining 1/2 tbsp butter; microwave on high power until melted, about 20 seconds.

15. 15

    Stir in the bread crumbs, the remaining 2 tbsp parmesan cheese and 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper.

16. 16

    Discard the garlic then sprinkle the bread crumbs mixture over the pasta.

17. 17

    Bake until golden about 15 minutes.

18. 18

    Let cool slightly.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.