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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can rival the classic mac and cheese. However, when you elevate this beloved dish with a medley of veggies and a delightful blend of cheeses, you create a masterpiece that not only satisfies cravings but also nourishes your body. This blog post will guide you through the process of making Cheesy Delight Mac & Veggie Bliss, a creamy, cheesy dish that is as wholesome as it is delicious. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe will become a go-to for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals without sacrificing flavor.

Classic Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheesy Delight Mac & Veggie Bliss, a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese. Packed with elbow macaroni, a colorful mix of veggies, and a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, this dish is both comforting and nutritious. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe guides you through making a rich, cheesy sauce that coats every bite. Elevate your meal with a crunchy topping and enjoy alongside a fresh salad for a complete experience.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 cup milk

1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup finely chopped cauliflower

1/2 cup finely chopped carrots

1/2 cup frozen peas

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

    Prepare the Veggies: In a medium-sized pot, steam the chopped cauliflower and carrots over boiling water for approximately 5-7 minutes or until they are tender. Then, add the frozen peas and continue to steam for an additional 2 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and allow the vegetables to cool slightly.

      Blend the Veggies: Transfer the steamed vegetable mixture to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding a tablespoon of water if needed to reach a creamy consistency. Set this pureed veggie mixture aside.

        Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder, stirring until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add the softened cream cheese to the saucepan, mixing it smoothly with the butter and spices. Gradually whisk in the milk, warming until the mixture begins to simmer gently.

          Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing continuously until they are fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Gently fold in the blended veggie mixture, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir vigorously until every piece of pasta is generously coated with the creamy sauce.

              Optional Topping: If you wish for a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese into an appropriately sized baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and bubbly.

                Serve: Spoon generous portions of the mac and cheese into bowls. Embrace the deliciously creamy dish that delivers a satisfying veggie boost, and enjoy!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 4-6