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Veggie Mac & Cheese

Creamy Veggie Mac & Cheese: Ultimate Comfort Food Upgrade

This Creamy Veggie Mac & Cheese combines indulgent flavors with nutritious vegetables, making it an ideal dish for families looking to elevate a classic favorite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces whole wheat rotini gluten-free option available
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets can be swapped with zucchini
  • 1 cup broccoli florets use frozen if fresh unavailable
  • 1 cup carrots can replace with bell peppers
  • 1 cup frozen peas can substitute with fresh peas
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups whole milk 2% milk can be used for a lighter option
  • 1 cup gouda cheese can replace with mozzarella
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese mild cheddar is a good alternative
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free substitute
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder fresh garlic can be experimented with
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder fresh shallots can be used
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard optional if a milder sauce is desired
  • to taste kosher salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • optional red pepper flakes
For the Topping
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko breadcrumbs enhances crispiness

Equipment

  • large stock pot
  • steamer basket

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a pot, add one inch of water and boil. Place cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots in a steamer basket to steam for 2-3 minutes until tender. Set aside to keep warm.
  2. In a large pot over medium-low heat, combine whole milk, rotini, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook until pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and slowly stir in gouda, cheddar, and parmesan until melted into a creamy sauce. Fold in the steamed vegetables until evenly mixed.
  4. Serve in bowls, top with breadcrumbs and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Pre-grate cheese for easier melting and adjust seasonings to taste. Use fresh vegetables for better flavor and nutrition.

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