Delicious Vegetable Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Creamy Comfort Food with a Twist
Guide or Summary:Vegetable Mac and CheeseRecipeIngredientsInstructionsWhy You'll Love This RecipeVegetable Mac and CheeseRecipeIngredients- 300g elbow macar……
Guide or Summary:
Vegetable Mac and Cheese
Recipe
Ingredients
- 300g elbow macaroni
- 50g butter
- 50g all-purpose flour
- 500ml whole milk
- 200g cheddar cheese, grated
- 100g Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, and bell peppers), chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Cook the Pasta**: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Make the Cheese Sauce**: In the same skillet, add the all-purpose flour and stir to combine with the melted butter. Cook for about 1 minute until the mixture is lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Add the grated cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
5. **Combine Pasta and Sauce**: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Stir in the sautéed vegetables and mix thoroughly.
6. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. **Bake**: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. **Garnish and Serve**: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious and creamy vegetable mac and cheese!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This vegetable mac and cheese recipe is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Not only does it provide a creamy and indulgent experience, but it also incorporates a variety of nutritious vegetables, making it a healthier option. The rich blend of cheddar and Gruyère cheeses creates a luxurious texture, while the mixed vegetables add a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, earthy flavor. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening. Plus, the easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you can whip up this delicious treat anytime you crave something warm and satisfying. Whether you're a cheese lover or a vegetable enthusiast, this vegetable mac and cheese recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love!