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+ servings
A pink bowl on top of the pink plate with a colorful napkin with veggies scattered on the white countertop. The bowl is full of veggie mac & cheese.

Get the recipe: Kid-Requested Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese (20 Minutes)

4.9 stars (8 ratings)
A simple and satisfying mac and cheese recipe with a twist - a flavorful hidden veggie-loaded cheese sauce! It's cheesy, comforting, and healthy - sure to become an all-time favorite family meal.

Ingredients 

  • 8 oz pasta
  • 1/3 cup cauliflower, chopped - fresh or frozen
  • 1/3 cup carrots, peeled and chopped - fresh or frozen
  • 1/3 cup sweet potato, peeled and chopped - fresh or frozen
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, from a block of cheese works best
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp pepper optional

Instructions 

  • Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add pasta, and cook according to the directions on the box for 'al dente'. Drain and reserve.
  • Veggies: Meanwhile, cook your veggies. If using frozen veggies, place the veggies in a microwave-safe dish along with 2 tbsp water and cook for 2 minutes or until tender. If using fresh veggies, steam in a steamer basket over boiling water for 5-6 minutes or until tender.
  • Blend: Add the cooked veggies and milk to a blender and blend for 1-2 minutes or until smooth.
  • Sauce: In the same pot, turn the heat to low and melt the butter. Add in the veggie mixture, shredded cheese, salt and pepper.
  • Whisk: Make sure to whisk the sauce until completely smooth, usually takes 1-2 minutes for the cheese to fully melt.
  • Mac & Cheese: Add in the pasta and mix until well incorporated. If the sauce gets too thick, add in a few tablespoons of milk to thin it out.
  • Serve: Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Age: 9+ months
Veggie Amount: I used a total of 1 cup of veggies for this recipe, but you could easily go up to 1 1/2 cups of veggies if you prefer. 
How to Store: Store veggie mac and cheese leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Toppings:
Win over even the pickiest of toddlers and older kids by letting them choose from a couple of toppings to sprinkle over their bowl, such as bacon crumbles, everything bagel seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, or grated Parmesan cheese.  
  • Peas
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Spinach
  • Butternut squash
  • Shelled Edamame
  • Quartered cherry tomatoes
  • Mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
  • Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese
  • Top with crispy panko breadcrumbs
 

Did you make this recipe?

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