No Bake Macaroni & Cheese

I've recently has some requests for quick, easy and healthy foods for kids.  Kids love mac and cheese and this version cooks nearly as fast as that one in the box.  While the pasta is cooking, make the ultra-creamy sauce and your done! 

No-Bake Macaroni and Cheese

• 8 oz. Whole wheat pasta (your choice)
• 1 10 oz. pkg. frozen chopped broccoli (fresh is even better)
• 1-3/4 cup low-fat milk, divided
• 3 Tb. flour
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. pepper (optional)
• 1 cup shredded xtra-sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp. Dijon mustard

Directions:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.  Cook pasta for 4 mins.  Add frozen or fresh broccoli and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until pasta and broccoli are just tender, 4 to 5 minutes more.

Heat 1-1/2 cup of milk in a medium pot over medium-high heat until just simmering.  Whisk the remaining 1/4 cup milk, flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper (if using) in a small bowl until combined.  Add the flour mixture to the simmering milk, return to a simmer and whisk until thickened, 2-3 minutes.  Remove from heat and whisk in cheddar, parmesan and mustard until cheese is melted.

Drain the pasta and broccoli and add to the cheese sauce,  Return to heat and stir until heated through, about 1 minute.

Mmm, Mmm, Good!

                                                                                 
Servings: 4
Total Cooking Time: 25 mins.
~Adapted from Eating Well

Printer-Friendly Version