Baked Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe for Easy Comfort Meals

If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a healthy dose of vegetables, this baked veggie mac and cheese recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy weekends, this dish brings together tender pasta, a rich cheese sauce, and vibrant vegetables all baked to golden perfection.

It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients without compromising on flavor or texture.

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to customize the veggies according to what’s fresh or in your fridge. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or a crowd of friends, this baked mac and cheese strikes the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and wholesome.

Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Get ready to discover a veggie-packed twist on a classic comfort food that will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked veggie mac and cheese is a one-dish meal that combines the best of both worlds: indulgent comfort food and nutritious vegetables. The cheese sauce is rich and creamy, made from real cheese and milk, but it’s balanced by a colorful medley of veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots that add texture and freshness.

It’s also incredibly versatile — you can swap in your favorite vegetables or add extras like spinach or peas. The baking step creates a crispy golden crust that adds wonderful texture contrast.

This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and can be easily adapted for vegan or dairy-free diets by following some simple substitutions.

With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this dish is beginner-friendly but impressive enough to serve guests. Dive in and enjoy a healthier take on a beloved classic!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 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 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta and steaming veggies
• Colander
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• 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.
2. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. Steam the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, and shredded carrots until just tender, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
5. Slowly whisk in the warm milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
7. Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Combine pasta, veggies, and cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the cooked macaroni and steamed vegetables into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
9. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
10. Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and Parmesan cheese (if using).
11. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
12. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
13. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. This lets the sauce thicken up and makes it easier to serve.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, use vegan cheese shreds, and replace butter with vegan margarine.

Tip: To add even more flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding your flour for the roux. You can also mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the cheese sauce for a tangy depth.

If you want extra veggies, add peas, spinach, or zucchini to the mix. For a crunchy topping alternative, try crushed cornflakes or chopped nuts instead of panko breadcrumbs.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked veggie mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese. Roasted garlic bread or garlic knots are also excellent accompaniments for soaking up any cheesy sauce left on your plate.

For a full meal, serve alongside steamed green beans or a crisp coleslaw. To add a protein boost, consider serving with grilled tofu, tempeh, or a simple bean salad.

Looking for more delicious vegetarian comfort food? Check out our collection of A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore hearty dishes like our Baked Lasagna Recipe Vegetarian Sanjeev Kapoor Delight.

Conclusion

This baked veggie mac and cheese recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the best of both worlds—comfort food and wholesome vegetables. The creamy cheese sauce envelops tender pasta and vibrant vegetables, while the golden breadcrumb topping adds just the right amount of crunch.

It’s a family-friendly dish that can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

Whether you’re looking to make a satisfying weeknight dinner or impress guests with a vegetarian favorite, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with different veggies and cheeses to find your perfect combination.

For more creative and delicious dishes like this, explore our extensive recipes such as Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals and Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.

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