Veggie Mac and Cheese
A creamy, cheesy pasta that cleverly hides cauliflower and sweet potato for extra nutrition. Quick, easy, and family-approved, this dish delivers fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein while remaining comforting and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meal prep.
Equipment
- 1 large pot (5-quart)
- 1 blender (high-speed, e.g., Vitamix)
- 1 slotted spoon
Ingredients
- ½ cup cauliflower florets
- ½ cup sweet potato peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese yellow or white
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- 8 ounces pasta your choice
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing your cauliflower florets and peeled sweet potato cubes thoroughly under cold water. Ensure the cauliflower is broken into small, bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly. Cut the sweet potato into uniform cubes, about ½ inch in size, to ensure they soften at the same rate as the cauliflower. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly smooth sauce later.
- Cook the Vegetables: Fill a large pot (5-quart recommended) with water and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, carefully add the cauliflower and sweet potato. Cook them for approximately 10 minutes or until a fork or skewer slides through effortlessly. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the puree watery. Once tender, use a slotted spoon to transfer the vegetables to your blender, letting most of the water drain off.
- Blend the Veggies into a Sauce: Into your blender, add the drained cauliflower and sweet potato. Pour in the milk, add the butter, salt, and garlic powder if using. Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes perfectly smooth and creamy, with no visible chunks. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed—more salt or a tiny pinch of pepper can enhance the flavors. The sauce should have a rich, velvety consistency, ideal for coating pasta.
- Cook the Pasta: Return the water from the vegetable pot to a boil (or use a fresh pot) and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta thoroughly once it is al dente—soft but still slightly firm in the center. Return the drained pasta to the empty pot while it’s still hot.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the blended veggie-cheese sauce over the cooked pasta. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the sauce into the pasta, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. This step is key for a creamy, luscious texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding a pinch of salt or a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese to serving bowls or a large dish. For added appeal, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top or a pinch of paprika for color. Serve immediately while warm and creamy. This dish pairs wonderfully with simple side salads, roasted veggies, or a protein like grilled chicken or mild sausage.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and stir gently while warming in the microwave or on the stovetop to restore creaminess. Alternatively, you can freeze the sauce in advance in ice cube trays or small containers, then thaw and mix with freshly cooked pasta for a quick weeknight meal.
Notes
- To make the sauce extra creamy, be sure to fully drain the cooked vegetables before blending. Any excess water can thin the sauce and make it less velvety.
- Use a high-speed blender for the smoothest texture; if using a standard blender, blend in batches to avoid uneven consistency.
- You can swap out cheddar for a mild mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile, though the vibrant orange color comes best from classic cheddar.
- Adjust the milk amount slightly if you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce. Start with ½ cup and add more slowly while blending if needed.
- For a richer flavor, try roasting the cauliflower and sweet potato instead of boiling—they will develop a natural sweetness that enhances the cheese sauce.
