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Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese

Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 490
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cups chopped carrots (about 3 medium)
  • 2 cups cauliflower florets (about half a small head)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 tsp salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

Method
 

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain and return pasta to the pot.
  2. Melt butter in a skillet, sauté onion until soft, then add carrots, cauliflower, and milk. Cover and simmer until very tender, about 10 minutes.
  3. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a blender. Add cheddar, cream cheese, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Blend on high until completely smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce over the pasta and toss to coat. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed and serve immediately.

Notes

Stir in a little extra milk or pasta water when reheating leftovers to bring the sauce back to its original creamy state. For a baked version, top with buttered breadcrumbs and broil until golden.