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Creamy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese

hidden veggie mac and cheese - featured image
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A creamy mac and cheese recipe that cleverly hides steamed cauliflower and carrots in the cheese sauce, perfect for picky eaters and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 1½ cups cauliflower florets, steamed
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and steamed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (7-8 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, steam 1½ cups cauliflower florets and 1 cup peeled carrots until very tender, about 10 minutes.
  3. Transfer steamed veggies to a blender or food processor. Add ¼ cup of milk and blend until completely smooth.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until lightly golden and bubbling.
  5. Slowly whisk in 1¾ cups milk plus the pureed vegetables. Keep whisking as the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes, until smooth and coating the back of a spoon.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in 2 ounces softened cream cheese and 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional), and salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Add a splash of milk if the mixture is too thick.
  8. Serve warm immediately. For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.

Notes

Use smaller cauliflower florets for smoother puree. Freshly shred cheese for better melting. Add milk gradually when pureeing veggies to achieve silky texture. Stir constantly when making roux to avoid lumps. For dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives. Leftovers reheat best with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, hidden vegetables, creamy, picky eater, quick dinner, comfort food, cauliflower, carrots, cheesy sauce

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/creamy-hidden-veggie-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-picky-eater-approved/