Ultimate Broccoli and Garlic Mac & Cheese with Mmmm…Bacon Shredded Cheese 

Directions

1. Preheat oven to (204ºC) 400 ºF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the broccoli on the prepared baking sheet, then toss with 3 cloves of minced garlic, the olive oil, and a good pinch of salt and pepper, and roast until crisp and cooked through, about 18 - 20 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to the package directions.

4. While the broccoli is roasting and the pasta is cooking, prepare your cheese sauce. Heat a large saucepan over medium-heat and melt the butter. When melted, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then whisk in the flour. Let it bubble away until fragrant, then slowly whisk in the milk until combined. Season with a pinch of salt, then let it gently bubble away until thickened, about 8 - 10 minutes. One handful at a time, stir in the Armstrong Mmmm…Bacon Shredded Cheese until melted, creamy, and absolutely perfect.

5. Lastly, prepare the breadcrumb topping. Heat a skillet over medium-heat and melt the butter. Add the panko and, stirring often, cook until just starting to turn golden, about 4 - 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon zest, basil, and a pinch of salt.

6. Add the pasta and cooked broccoli to the cheese sauce, and mix well, then transfer to a baking dish. Top with your breadcrumbs, then transfer to the oven and bake until melted, bubbling, and golden, about 15 - 20 minutes, and serve immediately. Delicious!

Recipe developed in collaboration with Chef Dennis Prescott and Ingredients by Saputo.