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–+ servings
Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese

Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese: The Best Comfort Food Upgrade

Discover this Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese, a nutritious twist on comfort food that kids will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Macaroni opt for gluten-free pasta if needed
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cauliflower pureed
  • 1 cup Carrots pureed
  • 1 cup Butternut Squash pureed
  • 1 cup Spinach fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup Zucchini
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Butter or olive oil for dairy-free
  • 3 tablespoons Flour gluten-free flour for dietary needs
  • 2 cups Milk or almond/oat milk for vegan
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese or vegan cheese
For the Finishing Touches
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (chives, parsley) optional
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs optional for topping

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Blender
  • large saucepan
  • casserole dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, add macaroni, cook until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Steam or boil cauliflower, carrots, butternut squash until tender, then puree until smooth.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, add milk gradually, stir until thickened.
  4. Combine Purees and Cheese: Stir the vegetable puree into the sauce, then fold in shredded cheese until melted.
  5. Combine Sauce and Pasta: Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stir until well coated.
  6. Baking (optional): Preheat oven to 350°F, bake the mixture in a greased dish for 15-20 minutes until golden.
  7. Garnish & Serve: Cool slightly, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 17gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This recipe is customizable; adjust vegetables based on preferences and seasonal availability.

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