Makeover Creamy Mac and Cheese

(Courtesy of Taste of Home)

Ingredients:
1 pkg. (16 oz.) elbow macaroni
1/3 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
2 c. fat-free half-and-half
2 Tbsp. butter
2 c. fat-free milk
3 c. (12 oz.) shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
OPTIONAL TOPPING:
2 Tbsp. butter
1 medium onion, chopped
5 c. cubed bread
1/2 c. shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk flour, seasonings and half-and-half until smooth  In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.  Stir in half-and-half mixture.  Add milk.  Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly; remove from the heat.  Add cheese; stir until melted.

Stir in macaroni.  Transfer to a 9x13 baking dish coated with nonstick cooking spray.

For optional topping, in a large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat.  Add onion; cook and stir until tender.  Add bread; cook and stir 2 minutes longer.  Sprinkle bread mixture over macaroni mixture; top with cheese.

Bake, uncovered, 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

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