Ingredients

  • 1 slice whole wheat bread
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onion
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups nonfat milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
  • 1 1/2 ounces grated fresh parmesan cheese
  • 5 cups coarsely chopped fresh spinach
  • 4 cups hot cooked elbow macaroni (about 2 cups uncooked)
  • cooking spray

Method

  • Preheat oven to 350°.
  • Place bread in a food processor, and pulse 10 times or until coarse crumbs measure 1/2 cup.
  • Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook 1 minute. Add flour; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly with a whisk until blended. Bring to a boil; cook until thick (about 2 minutes). Add cheeses; stir until melted.
  • Add spinach and macaroni to cheese sauce, stirring until well blended. Spoon mixture into a 2-quart baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until bubbly.