Skinny Baked Mac

INGREDIENTS

12 oz. whole wheat pasta (elbows, rotini, shells, etc.)
12 oz. fresh or frozen broccoli florets
2 Tablespoons butter
1/4 cup freshly minced onion
1/4 cup flour
2 cups fat-free milk
1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
8 oz. (2 cups) reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup panko bread crumbs



PROCEDURE
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 9 x 9 baking dish with cooking spray.

Set a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and broccoli together; cook according to pasta’s package directions for al dente.

In a large skillet set to medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and cook 1 minute. Whisk in flour and cook another minute. Whisk in milk and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook sauce about 5 minutes, or until smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper.

Once sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Add cheddar, stirring until well blended. Add pasta and broccoli; mix well. Pour into prepared baking dish. Top with grated parmesan and breadcrumbs. Lightly coat top with cooking spray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, then broil for 2-4 minutes to get the breadcrumbs golden.
Enjoy!



NUTRITION
Servings: 1 cup
Makes 8 Servings
Calories: 316 | Fat: 9.8 g | Protein: 17.7 g | Carbs: 44.3 g