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Amazing Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese: 30 Wins

Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese (Kid-Approved Healthy)
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Make a creamy, kid-approved mac and cheese while sneaking in extra vegetables like cauliflower or squash. This recipe balances comforting tradition with fresh, lighter additions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets (or peeled and chopped squash)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Add the cauliflower florets to the boiling water during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Drain well.
  2. While pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not boil.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  6. Add the shredded cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  7. Pour the cooked and drained macaroni and cauliflower into the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
  8. Serve immediately. For an extra boost, you can carefully blend the sauce mixture (before adding cheese) with the cooked cauliflower until totally smooth.

Notes

  • Using butternut squash instead of cauliflower offers a slightly sweeter flavor.
  • For a smoother sauce outcome, blend the cooked cauliflower with a portion of the milk before adding it to the roux.
  • Shred your own cheese; pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that affect melt quality.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonsprout.com/hidden-veggie-mac-cheese-kid-approved-healthy/