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- 8 ounces elbow macaroni - 1 cup cauliflower florets - 1 cup grated carrots - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 2 cups whole milk - 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon mustard powder - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Homestyle Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition with our Cheesy Veggie Delight, a mac and cheese recipe that sneaks in healthy veggies like cauliflower and carrots. This creamy dish satisfies cheesy cravings while packing a nutritional punch, making it ideal for families. With simple preparation steps and customizable options, you can enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love. Say goodbye to guilty pleasures and hello to a wholesome twist on a classic favorite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

1 cup cauliflower florets, steamed and puréed

1 cup carrots, steamed and grated

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 cups milk

3 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

    Prepare the Veggies: Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a blender and purée until smooth. In a separate bowl, grate the steamed carrots.

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

        Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.

          Incorporate Cheese and Veggies: Reduce the heat to low and add the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted.

            Combine: Stir in the puréed cauliflower and grated carrots into the cheese sauce until well combined. Then, add the cooked macaroni and mix until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy veggie-infused cheese sauce.

              Optional Topping: If you desire a crispy topping, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until well coated. Spread the mac and cheese into a baking dish, top with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

                Serve: Once baked (if you chose that option), let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your homestyle mac and cheese with hidden veggies!

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4