Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a staple dish in many households.  It's always an option in a "Meat + 3" or on a veggie plate.  While it's fantastic it's not the healthiest option.  I found this recipe online through Weight Watchers and substituted whole wheat pasta.

While it wasn't the most amazing mac and cheese I've ever had it was pretty good.  I loved the broccoli and the whole wheat pasta was delicious.

Broccoli Mac and Cheese:
(adapted from Weight Watchers, 7 pps+)

2 spray(s) cooking spray  
12 oz uncooked pasta, I used whole wheat (about 2 1/2 cups)  
1/8 tsp table salt, for pasta cooking water  
10 oz uncooked broccoli, small florets (about 2 1/2 cups)  
1 tsp salted butter  
1/3 cup(s) fresh bread crumbs  
3 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, divided  
2 1/2 cup(s) fat-free skim milk  
1/3 cup(s) all-purpose flour  
1/2 cup(s) (chopped) uncooked onion(s), diced  
1 cup(s) low-fat shredded Cheddar cheese, sharp-variety  
1 tsp Dijon mustard  
1 1/2 tsp table salt  
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground  

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375ºF. Coat a shallow 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.

Cook pasta in a large pot of lightly salted boiling water according to package directions, adding broccoli to water 3 minutes before pasta will be done; drain pasta and broccoli and return to pot.

Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add bread crumbs and cook, stirring often, until light golden, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer crumbs to a small bowl; stir in 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese and set aside.

In same saucepan (wipe clean if necessary), whisk together milk and flour until blended; add onion. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, whisking frequently. Reduce heat to low and simmer until thickened, about 2 minutes.

Remove from heat and whisk in cheddar cheese, mustard, salt, pepper and remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese. Pour over cooked, drained pasta and broccoli; toss to mix and coat.

Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle top evenly with bread crumbs. Bake until bubbly at edges, about 20 to 25 minutes. Divide into 8 pieces and serve. Yields 1 piece per serving.