Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with my One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Seriously, the simplicity of throwing everything into one pot makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or when I’m craving something creamy and cheesy. The beauty of this recipe lies in its richness and the vibrant mix of veggies that not only add color but also a boost of nutrition. You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up a bowl of this deliciousness in just about 25 minutes! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for more, and you might even want to experiment with your favorite veggie combinations. Let’s dive into this cheesy goodness!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz macaroni (I love using elbow macaroni, but any small pasta will do!)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (Homemade or store-bought, it’s all good!)
- 1 cup milk (I usually go for whole milk for creaminess, but feel free to use your favorite type!)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar is my go-to, but you can mix it up with mozzarella or a blend!)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (Think frozen peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers—whatever you have handy!)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (This adds a lovely depth of flavor!)
- 1 tsp onion powder (Trust me, it elevates the dish!)
- Salt to taste (I usually add a pinch, but adjust according to your preference!)
- Pepper to taste (A little sprinkle of black pepper gives it just the right kick!)
How to Prepare One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese
Let’s get cooking! This One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese is as straightforward as it gets, and I’m here to guide you through every step. Just follow along, and you’ll have a creamy, cheesy dish in no time!
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
First, grab a large pot and toss in your 8 oz of macaroni, 2 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 cup of milk. Make sure to use medium heat here; we want to bring it all to a gentle boil without rushing things. Stir it a bit to keep the pasta from sticking, and let it bubble away for about 7-8 minutes, or until the macaroni is just tender. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it—nobody wants a boiled-over mess!
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Once your macaroni is cooked, it’s time to add in those vibrant veggies! Stir in your 1 cup of mixed vegetables—frozen peas, diced carrots, or whatever you’ve got on hand work perfectly. Then, sprinkle in 1 tsp of garlic powder and 1 tsp of onion powder for that flavor boost. Now, reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer together for about 3-4 minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully!
Step 3: Stir in Cheese
Now for the best part: add in your 2 cups of shredded cheese. I usually start with cheddar, but feel free to get creative! Stir it in slowly, and watch as it melts into a creamy sauce. You’ll want to keep stirring until everything is perfectly combined and gooey—about 2-3 minutes should do it. If it looks too thick, don’t be shy about adding a splash more milk!
Step 4: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your masterpiece and season with salt and pepper to your liking. I love a generous pinch of each! Serve it hot right out of the pot—it’s the best way to enjoy this dish. You can top it with a sprinkle of extra cheese or some fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy. Dig in and enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese!
FAQ Section
Can I use different kinds of cheese?
Absolutely! I love experimenting with different cheeses in my One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese. Cheddar is a classic, but you could totally mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or even a bit of pepper jack for a spicy kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a blend of cheeses like gouda or fontina for a gourmet twist. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, so adjust your cooking time accordingly!
What vegetables work best?
Honestly, it’s all about what you have on hand! I usually reach for frozen peas and diced carrots because they cook quickly and add great color. Bell peppers, broccoli, and even spinach are fantastic choices too! You can really customize this dish—just make sure to chop any fresh veggies into smaller pieces so they cook evenly. If you’ve got leftover roasted veggies, toss those in for a delicious twist!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), just let the mac and cheese cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help loosen it up. Microwave works too, but I find the stovetop gives you that creamy texture back!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot wonder: No fuss, no mess! Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Creamy and comforting: The rich, cheesy sauce envelops the pasta and veggies, creating a warm hug in every bite.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just about 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle.
- Nutritious boost: Packed with veggies, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also adds a healthy twist to classic mac and cheese.
- Customizable: Use whatever veggies and cheeses you have on hand, so it’s always a little different and exciting!
- Kid-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this cheesy goodness—it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies!
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the boil: Make sure to bring your pasta mixture to a gentle boil before adding the veggies. This helps the macaroni cook evenly!
- Stir frequently: Give the pot a good stir every so often while it’s cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. It really makes a difference!
- Choose your cheese wisely: If you’re mixing cheeses, try to stick with varieties that melt well. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella is always a winner!
- Adjust the liquid: If you find your mac and cheese is too thick while cooking, don’t hesitate to add a little more milk or broth to achieve that creamy consistency.
- Season as you go: Taste your dish at different stages and adjust the seasoning. This way, you’ll ensure every bite is perfectly flavored!
- Let it rest: If you can, let your One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese sit for a couple of minutes after cooking. This allows it to thicken a bit more and makes serving easier!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! This dish is so comforting and filling on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can really elevate your meal.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for mopping up that creamy cheese sauce!
- Green Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice contrast and helps balance out the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Steamed Veggies: Keep it simple with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans. They add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your plate!
- Roasted Vegetables: If you have some leftover veggies, roast them in the oven with a bit of olive oil and seasoning for a delicious side that complements the dish.
- Pickles or Olives: A little tanginess can cut through the creaminess, so consider serving some pickles or olives on the side for a quick and easy addition.
- Fruit Salad: For a refreshing finish, a light fruit salad can cleanse the palate and provide a sweet contrast to the savory mac and cheese.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand. Enjoy your meal with family or friends, and get ready for some happy faces around the table!
Nutritional Information Section
Before you dig into your delicious One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese, let’s chat about the nutrition! Keep in mind that these values are an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But here’s a general breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 15g
This comforting dish not only satisfies your cravings but also delivers a good balance of nutrients, especially thanks to those veggies! Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite knowing you’re indulging wisely!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page. If you’re looking for a tasty breakfast option, try our Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats. You can also learn about the health benefits of vegetables here.
Print
One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese: 25-Minute Comfort Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and creamy one pot veggie mac and cheese.
Ingredients
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine macaroni, vegetable broth, and milk.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add mixed vegetables, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use any veggies you have on hand.
- Adjust cheese quantity based on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese