Description
Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese is a healthier twist on the classic comfort food, featuring a creamy cheese sauce packed with nutritious vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or butternut squash. Perfect for sneaking in extra veggies without sacrificing flavor, this dish is a family-friendly favorite that’s rich, cheesy, and wholesome. Ideal for picky eaters or anyone looking for a more nutritious mac and cheese option!
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
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2 cups cauliflower florets (or butternut squash, carrots, or a mix of your favorite veggies)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 cups milk (any kind)
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mac and Cheese:
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8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Veggies:
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Steam the cauliflower (or your chosen veggies) until tender, about 8-10 minutes. If using butternut squash or carrots, roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until soft.
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Once cooked, transfer the veggies to a blender or food processor. Add 1/2 cup of the milk and blend until smooth. You can add more milk for a thinner sauce if needed.
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Make the Cheese Sauce:
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In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
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Slowly whisk in the remaining 1 1/2 cups of milk, making sure there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
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Stir in the blended veggie puree, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce:
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Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated with the cheesy veggie sauce. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or garlic powder if desired.
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Serve:
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Serve the Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese immediately, topped with extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of parsley, if desired.
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Optional Baking:
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For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with extra shredded cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
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Notes
Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, peas, or sweet potatoes to the sauce for added nutrition.Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese, almond milk, and vegan butter to make this dish vegan. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor.Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or gouda for a richer and more complex flavor.
