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Welcome to the delightful world of comfort food, where few dishes evoke the warmth and nostalgia quite like mac and cheese. This classic staple has been a beloved favorite across generations, often associated with cozy family dinners and indulgent treats. In this recipe, we explore a unique twist on the traditional mac and cheese by incorporating fresh vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, which not only enhance the dish's flavor but also boost its nutritional profile. This Cheesy Veggie Delight Mac & Cheese is perfect for busy families looking for a quick meal or for cooking enthusiasts eager to experiment with flavors while keeping it simple and satisfying.

Classic Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Veggie Delight Mac & Cheese recipe! Combining creamy cheddar and mozzarella with health-boosting broccoli and cauliflower, this dish is both indulgent and nutritious. Perfect for busy families, it's quick to make and can be customized to suit everyone's tastes. Bake it with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for added texture and serve it with a salad for a complete meal the whole family will love.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups broccoli florets, chopped

1 cup cauliflower florets, chopped

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for breadcrumbs, optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli and cauliflower florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.

    Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden. Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the mixture, whisking frequently, until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

      Add Spices: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

        Combine: In a large mixing bowl or the pot you used for pasta, combine the drained macaroni and veggies with the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.

          Prepare for Baking (Optional): If you like a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated.

            Bake (Optional): Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. If you're skipping the bake, simply serve as is!

              Serve & Enjoy: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with more cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your classic mac and cheese with a veggie twist!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6