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In the world of comfort food, few dishes can match the warm embrace of a classic mac and cheese. But what if you could elevate this beloved staple with a burst of vegetables and a blend of gooey cheeses? Enter the Cheesy Veggie Delight Mac & Cheese—a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also sneaks in nutritious ingredients. This article will guide you through the process of creating this delightful recipe, exploring its ingredients, nutritional benefits, and the joy it brings to any meal.

Classic Macaroni and Cheese with Hidden Veggies

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Veggie Delight Mac & Cheese recipe! This dish combines the classic creaminess of mac and cheese with nutrient-packed vegetables like cauliflower and carrots, making it a delicious yet healthy option. With a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, this creamy dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Follow the easy step-by-step instructions to create a cheesy delight that everyone will love!
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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 breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

    Steam the Veggies: In a separate pot or steamer basket, add the cauliflower florets and chopped carrots. Steam them for about 8-10 minutes until they are tender. Once cooked, transfer the vegetables to a blender or food processor. Blend them until smooth, adding a splash of vegetable broth if necessary to achieve a creamy texture.

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens and reaches a smooth consistency.

        Add Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the saucepan. Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, and the pureed vegetable mixture. Stir continuously until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

          Combine: Pour the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce. Gently stir until every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated with the velvety cheese sauce.

            Prepare for Baking (Optional): For a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray, then transfer the macaroni and cheese into the dish. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the olive oil and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the macaroni.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. If you opt out of the breadcrumb topping, simply serve the dish straight from the pot or using a large spoon from the cooking vessel.

                Serve: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This delightful, creamy, and veggie-packed mac and cheese is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy every gooey bite!

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