Meaty Mac and Cheese

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

2. 2

   Add the pasta, and boil until the noodles have 5 minutes left to cook according to package directions.

3. 3

   Add the broccoli and ham; continue cooking until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.

4. 4

   Drain.

5. 5

   While the pasta cooks, make the sauce: Combine 2 Tbsp milk with the flour and whisk in the remaining 1 cup milk, stirring constantly.

6. 6

   Continue stirring until the sauce is the consistency of heavy cream, 2 to 3 minutes.

7. 7

   Remove from heat, and stir in the cheese until the sauce is smooth again.

8. 8

   Toss the pasta mixture with the sauce, and serve.

9. 9

   (To reheat, add a little milk to loosen the sauce.

10. 10

    ).

11. 11

    Optional Topping: Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish coated with cooking spray.

12. 12

    Combine 2 Tbsp melted butter with 1/3 cup bread crumbs and grated parmesan cheese.

13. 13

    Sprinkle the mixture on the pasta.

14. 14

    Bake at 450 degrees until the topping is golden, 3 to 5 minutes.

15. 15

    You can also replace the ham with chicken or swap the broccoli with peas or you can just leave it plain.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.