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Veggie Mac and Cheese

April 2, 2025

Veggie Mac and Cheese

How to Make Veggie Mac and Cheese

Sneak in some veggies and a serving of whole grains with this Veggie Mac and Cheese. This is a kid-approved side dish is a healthier version of the classic mac and cheese recipe. 


25 min prep time


20 min cook time


6servings


1 cup

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Step-By-Step Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente and use a spider strainer or spoon with holes to scoop the pasta out of the water and into a bowl (do not discard the water).  

  2. Add cauliflower and carrots to the same pot of boiling water and cook until they are tender, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside. 

  3. In the same saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux. 

  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. 

  5. Stir in the cheddar and whipped ricotta cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth. 

  6. Add the cooked cauliflower, carrots, and pasta to the sauce and stir to combine. Serve warm. 

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Nutrition facts

6 Servings



  • Serving Size

    1 cup


  • Amount per serving



    Calories





    280

  • % Daily value*

  • Total Fat
    9g

    12%

    • Saturated Fat
      3g

      15%
    • Trans Fats
      0g

  • Cholesterol
    15mg

    5%

  • Sodium
    290mg

    13%

  • Total Carbohydrate
    37g

    13%

    • Dietary Fiber
      6g

      21%
    • Total Sugars
      7g
    • Added Sugars
      0g

      0%

  • Protein
    16g

  • Potassium
    543mg

    12%

Ingredients

whole-grain macaroni pasta
8 oz

cauliflower florets
2 cup

carrots (peeled and chopped)
1 cup

skim milk
2 cup

whole wheat flour
2 tbsp

olive oil
2 tbsp

sharp, reduced fat cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 cup

whipped, fat free ricotta cheese
1/4 cup

Dijon Mustard
1 tsp

garlic powder
1/2 tsp

Kosher Salt
1/4 tsp

black pepper
1/4 tsp