Smoked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese


1 (1-oz) slice whole wheat bread
2 Tbs butter
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbs all-purpose flour
2 cups fat-free milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded smoked Gouda
1/3 cup (about 1 1/2 oz) grated fresh Parmesan cheese
5 cups coarsely chopped fresh spinach
4 cups hot cooked elbow macaroni (about 2 cups uncooked)
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 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 one minute. Add flour, cook one minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk, salt and pepper, stirring constantly with a whisk until blended. Bring to a boil, cook until thick (about two 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. Serves 4.