Best 2 Veggie Macaroni Cheese Recipes

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our mouthwatering veggie macaroni and cheese recipes! From classic stovetop macaroni and cheese to creamy baked versions and even a healthier air fryer option, we've got you covered. Savor the velvety cheese sauce made with a blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella, enveloping perfectly cooked macaroni and an array of colorful vegetables. Whether you're a vegetarian seeking a hearty and satisfying meal or simply looking to add more veggies to your diet, these recipes offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Get ready to elevate your macaroni and cheese game with our diverse collection of recipes, perfect for any occasion.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

VEGGIE MACARONI & CHEESE

Veggie Macaroni & Cheese image

This creamy mac and cheese definitely doesn't come from a box! Fresh veggies add crunch and color and will leave everyone saying, "More, please!" -Marsha Morril, Harrisburg, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Side Dishes

Time 45m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups fresh cauliflowerets
3 large carrots, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
2 celery ribs, sliced
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup 2% milk
1 cup chicken broth
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350°. In a 6-qt. stockpot, cook macaroni according to package directions, adding broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and celery during the last 6 minutes of cooking. Drain; transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish., Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, heat butter over medium-high heat; saute onion until tender. Stir in flour until blended. Gradually stir in milk and broth; bring to a boil. Cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes; stir in cheese, mustard, salt and pepper. , Add to macaroni mixture, stirring to coat; sprinkle with paprika. Bake, uncovered, until heated through, 15-20 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 200 calories, Fat 11g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 33mg cholesterol, Sodium 391mg sodium, Carbohydrate 15g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 10g protein.

VEGGIE MACARONI AND CHEESE CASSEROLE

VEGGIE MACARONI AND CHEESE CASSEROLE image

Delicious as a main dish.

Provided by Jean Fisher

Categories Casseroles

Time 50m

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

3/4 c uncooked macaroni
1 c brocoli - cut into small pieces (fresh)
1/2 c cauliflower - cut into small pieces (fresh)
4 small carrots - cut in slices
1/2 Tbsp butter
1/4 c onion - chopped
1/8 c flour
1/2 c milk
1/2 c chicken stock
1/2 c shredded cheese of choice

Steps:

1. Lightly spray baking dish with Pam. Preheat oven at 350.
2. In saucepan, cook macaroni. Add broccoli, cauliflower and carrots during last six minutes of cooking. Drain.
3. Transfer ingredients to baking dish.
4. In large saucepan, heat butter over medium heat. Saute onion until tender. Stir in flour until blended. Gradually stir in milk and broth; bring to boil. Cook & Stir until thickened.
5. Stir in cheese. Add to macaroni mixture, stirring to coat.
6. Bake uncovered about 15 minutes.

Tips:

Use a good quality cheese: The cheese is the star of this dish, so it's important to use a good quality cheddar that melts well. Sharp cheddar, aged cheddar, or a combination of both works well.
Cook the macaroni al dente: You don't want the macaroni to be mushy, so cook it until it's al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
Make a roux: A roux is a mixture of butter and flour that is used to thicken the cheese sauce. This will help to prevent the sauce from being thin and runny.
Use milk or cream: You can use either milk or cream to make the cheese sauce. Milk will produce a lighter sauce, while cream will produce a richer, more decadent sauce.
Season the sauce: Don't forget to season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste.
Add your favorite vegetables: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Some good options include broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, peas, and zucchini.
Top with breadcrumbs: A topping of breadcrumbs adds a nice crunch to the macaroni and cheese. You can use plain breadcrumbs or seasoned breadcrumbs.

Conclusion:

Veggie macaroni and cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's easy to make and can be customized to your liking. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give this veggie macaroni and cheese recipe a try.