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In today's fast-paced world, finding meals that are both nutritious and satisfying can be a challenge. Enter the Cheesy Veggie Delight Mac & Cheese—an indulgent yet wholesome dish that combines the comfort of traditional mac and cheese with the health benefits of vegetables. This recipe is perfect for families, providing a delightful way to sneak in some greens while still enjoying the creamy, cheesy goodness we all love. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the nutritional advantages of this delightful dish, ensuring you can recreate it effortlessly at home.

Classic Macaroni and Cheese with Hidden Veggies

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition with Cheesy Veggie Delight Mac & Cheese! This delightful recipe combines creamy, cheesy goodness with fresh vegetables, making it an ideal meal for the whole family. Learn how to easily prepare this dish, including steps for baking to achieve a crispy topping. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a satisfying way to sneak in some greens while enjoying the classic flavors we know and love. Dive into this delicious recipe today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups cauliflower florets

1 cup carrots, chopped

4 cups vegetable broth

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)

2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Steam the Veggies: In a separate pot, steam the cauliflower florets and chopped carrots until they are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. You may need to add a little vegetable broth for a smoother consistency.

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and is smooth.

        Add Cheeses: Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, and the pureed vegetable mix. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Combine: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is well coated.

            Prepare for Baking (Optional): If you’d like a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the macaroni.

              Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. If you skipped the topping, you can serve it directly from the pot or dish.

                Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm and enjoy your creamy, veggie-packed mac and cheese!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 40 min | 4 servings