Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin Mac n Cheese

Ingredients

• 6 servings pepper black freshly ground
• 1 small head bundle broccoli trimmed
• 2.5 cups cheddar extra-sharp grated
• 0.3 cup chives finely chopped
• 2 cloves into paste grated crushed peeled
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard 
• 1 small head half a head trimmed cut into florets
• 3 drops hot sauce 
• 2 cups cup heavy whipping cream sour reduced-fat
• 1 pound macaroni whole-wheat
• 6 servings salt 

Equipment

• bowl
• baking sheet
• oven
• pot
• sieve
• baking pan

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium heat. Salt the water and add the broccoli and cauliflower florets. Boil the vegetables for 5 minutes, then remove them with a spider or a strainer and drain.
2. Add the pasta to the water and undercook by about 2 minutes, drain.
3. Meanwhile, combine the sour cream in a large bowl along with the mustard, chives, garlic, hot sauce and salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Add the pasta and cauliflower and 2/3 of the cheese. Stir to combine, then transfer it to a casserole or baking dish and cover with the remaining cheese. Cool and chill for a make-ahead meal.
5. To heat and eat, put the casserole on baking sheet and bake it in the middle of a preheated 375 degree F oven until deeply golden and bubbly, about 40 to 45 minutes.