Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese Your Kids Will Actually Eat

Looking for a creative way to get your kids to eat their veggies? Look no further than this delicious Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese recipe! Packed with hidden vegetables and cheesy goodness, this dish is a surefire way to get your little ones excited about eating veggies.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
• 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cauliflower, butternut squash, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, then drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked vegetables to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Add the cooked macaroni and mix until everything is well coated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition Information:

Serving size: 1 cup

Calories: 350

Fat: 12g

Carbohydrates: 45g

Protein: 15g

Give this Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese recipe a try and watch as your kids devour their veggies without even realizing it! 🧀🥦 #MacAndCheese #HiddenVeggies #KidsApproved

Popular questions:

• Can I use gluten-free pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta for elbow macaroni in this recipe.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor of your mac & cheese.

• Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add additional vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas to amp up the veggie factor!

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time and assemble and bake when ready to serve.

• Can I freeze leftover mac & cheese?

Absolutely! Simply store in an airtight container in the freezer and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Helpful tips:

• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Top the mac & cheese with breadcrumbs and bake for a crispy topping.
• Add cooked diced chicken or ham for extra protein.
• Sneak in extra veggies by pureeing them and adding to the cheese sauce.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Expert Secrets:

• Don’t overcook the vegetables, as they can become mushy in the finished dish.
• Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
• Make sure to season the cheese sauce well with salt and pepper for optimal taste.
• Allow the mac & cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking to ensure it sets properly.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.