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–+ servings
Veggie Mac & Cheese

Creamy Veggie Mac & Cheese for a Cozy Night In

Indulge in this creamy Veggie Mac & Cheese, a comforting and nutritious dish perfect for a cozy night in.
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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 Veggies
  • 2 cups Cauliflower Florets can substitute with additional broccoli
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets substitute with spinach for a different flavor
  • 2 medium Carrots peeled and chopped; can replace with zucchini
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas fresh peas can replace if available
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Whole Wheat Rotini or similar shape pasta; substitute with gluten-free pasta for a different diet
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Whole Milk substitute with 2% or plant-based milk for a lighter option
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh garlic can be used as an alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder fresh minced onion can substitute for an aromatic kick
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard Dijon mustard is a suitable alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt adjust to taste if using salted cheeses
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper can be omitted for a milder flavor
  • 1 cup Shredded Gouda Cheese substitute with mozzarella if preferred
  • 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese mild cheddar can be used instead
  • 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be a substitute
For Topping
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs for topping; use panko for a crispier topping
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional; omit for a milder dish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • steamer basket

Method
 

Step‑By‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by steaming the cauliflower florets, broccoli florets, and chopped carrots in a steamer basket for 2-3 minutes until they are lightly tender but still crisp.
  2. In a large pot, combine whole milk, whole wheat rotini pasta, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Turn the heat to medium-low, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  3. Once the pasta is cooked, carefully remove the pot from the heat. Gradually stir in the shredded gouda, sharp cheddar, and parmesan cheese.
  4. Gently fold the steamed vegetables into the cheesy pasta mixture, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
  5. Serve your delicious Creamy Veggie Mac & Cheese warm, garnished with breadcrumbs and optional red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure all cheese is pre-grated for easy melting. Stir pasta frequently while cooking in milk to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

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