Rachael Ray: Rachael's Daytime Talkshow

Broccoli and Cheddar Mac 'n' Cheese

Aired on: February 25, 2010

This is one of many "Yum-o!" recipes – it's good and good for you. To find out more about Yum-o!, Rachael's nonprofit organization, go to www.yum-o.org.

Ingredients

Salt
1 pound whole wheat or whole grain penne with lines
2 bundles broccolini, trimmed and cut into 1-inch lengths or 1 large head of broccoli trimmed and cut into small florets
4 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup chicken stock
2 cups milk
2 1/2 cups extra-sharp yellow cheddar cheese, divided
Pepper
1/4 cup chives, chopped or 2 scallions, thinly sliced, optional

Yields: Serves 6

Preparation

Preheat broiler.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Salt water and cook pasta to al dente, according to package directions (about 10-12 minutes total, depending on the brand). When the pasta has been cooking a couple of minutes, add broccolini or broccoli to the water and finish cooking everything together, 8 minutes more.

Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepot over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 2-3 minutes. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute then whisk in stock and milk. Let sauce thicken to coat the back of a spoon, stir in 2 cups of cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Drain pasta and broccoli, and toss with the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste. Place in a large casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese and chives or scallions. Place under the broiler to bubble and brown the top.