Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 8 ounces medium pasta shells
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 shallot, minced
05 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
06 - 1 ⅓ cups whole milk
07 - 1 cup half and half
08 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
09 - Kosher salt
10 - Freshly ground black pepper
11 - 3 cups chopped broccoli florets
12 - 6 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated

# Instructions:

01 - In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
02 - Melt butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Add garlic and shallot, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
03 - Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, half and half and Dijon mustard until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk as needed; season with salt and pepper to taste.
04 - Stir in pasta, broccoli, and cheese until well combined, about 3-4 minutes.
05 - Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - This dish is both comforting and an easy way to incorporate more greens into your meal.