Baked Macaroni and Cheese With Vegetables Recipe Easy

Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, loved by many for its creamy, cheesy goodness and satisfying texture. But what if you could elevate this classic dish by adding a nutritious twist?

Enter baked macaroni and cheese with vegetables—a delicious, wholesome meal that combines the rich flavors of traditional mac and cheese with the vibrant freshness and health benefits of seasonal veggies.

This recipe is perfect for families looking to sneak in some extra nutrients or anyone wanting a hearty, colorful dinner that warms the soul. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this baked dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

In this post, I’ll guide you through every step of making this creamy, cheesy, and veggie-packed macaroni bake. From selecting the right vegetables to achieving the perfect golden crust, you’ll find everything you need to create a crowd-pleasing meal.

Plus, I’ll share tips for customizing the recipe, nutritional insights, and serving suggestions to round out your dining experience. Ready to dive into a comforting bowl that’s both tasty and nourishing?

Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked macaroni and cheese with vegetables recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. The creamy cheese sauce clings to tender pasta, while the vegetables add delightful textures and bursts of flavor.

It’s a one-dish meal that’s both filling and packed with vitamins and fiber.

You’ll appreciate how easy it is to customize this dish to your tastes or what’s in season. Whether you prefer broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, or carrots, this recipe welcomes any veggie additions.

It’s also ideal for meal prepping and reheats beautifully, making it a practical choice for busy households.

Finally, the crispy breadcrumb topping offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior. This recipe is a fantastic way to please both kids and adults, and it pairs well with many side dishes for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red or yellow for sweetness)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta and vegetables
• Colander for draining pasta and veggies
• Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease the baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set aside.
2. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers to the boiling pasta water to blanch them slightly. Drain the pasta and vegetables together in a colander and set aside.
3. Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, whisking constantly.
4. Gradually add the warm milk: Slowly pour the milk into the roux while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the cheese and seasonings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Combine pasta, vegetables, and cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta and veggies with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
7. Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter until evenly coated.
8. Assemble the casserole: Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges.
10. Cool and serve: Let the baked macaroni and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cheese sauce.

Vegetable variations: Feel free to swap the broccoli, carrots, and peppers for other favorites like spinach, zucchini, peas, or mushrooms. Roasted vegetables can add a lovely smoky flavor as well.

Cheese swaps: Use gouda, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for different cheesy profiles. Adding a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone can make the sauce even creamier.

Make it vegan: Try this recipe with plant-based milk, vegan cheese alternatives, and vegan butter. For inspiration on vegan cheese sauces, check out our Cauliflower Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe for Easy Dips.

Extra crunch: Mix some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the breadcrumb topping for a crunchy texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked macaroni and cheese with vegetables stands beautifully on its own as a hearty main dish. However, pairing it with fresh, crisp greens such as a simple mixed salad or steamed green beans can add refreshing contrast.

For a more substantial meal, serve alongside homemade garlic bread or a warm bowl of tomato soup. If you’re entertaining, consider adding a light appetizer like our Spring Rolls Recipe Vegetarian: Easy, Fresh, and Delicious to complement the creamy richness of the mac and cheese.

Conclusion

Delicious, comforting, and packed with nutritious vegetables, this baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist. The creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful veggies come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can make this dish and customize it according to their preferences or what’s available in their fridge. For more wholesome and creative vegetarian recipes, explore our collection like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or dive into wholesome grains with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking!

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