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(This was adapted from PioneerWomans Fancy Macaroni recipe).
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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Boil a large pot of water and cook pasta to al dente (according to package instructions for al dente).
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When pasta is finished, drain off the hot water, and add cool water to stop the cooking.
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Drain again.
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Set aside.
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Boil another pot of water and add the broccoli.
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Cook until broccoli is done, but not mushy (from 4-7 minutes).
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Drain and set aside.
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Fry bacon in a skillet over medium heat.
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Cook until crispy.
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Then remove it from the pan, chop it and set aside.
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Reserve 1 teaspoon of bacon grease.
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In a separate skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion, 4 tablespoons of butter, and the chopped garlic.
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Cook until the onion is translucent then remove from heat and set the mixture aside in a bowl.
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In that same skillet, add 1 teaspoon of bacon grease and remaining 4 tablespoons of butter on medium heat.
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Add the flour, and whisk, stirring frequently.
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Add the milk, stirring as you go.
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Allow sauce to thicken, and reduce heat.
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(Make sure you are stirring during this process, as it could get lumpy).
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Add your cheeses (I used a couple of small bags of my favorite cheeses), as well as the onion, and bacon pieces and salt and pepper to taste.
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Add the broccoli to the drained pasta in a large mixing bowl and then add the cheese mixture.
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Stir to combine.
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Add the pasta to your favorite baking dish and sprinkle with as much Shake N Bake as you wish!
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(I love the flavor of extra crispy).
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Pop in the oven for 20 minutes, or until Shake N Bake crumbs are slightly brown.
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You could also add some chopped chicken to the dish to make it more casserole like.
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It turns out beautifully as well!
