Veggie Tot Mac Cheese Recipes

VEGGIE MACARONI & CHEESE

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350°. In a 6-qt. stockpot, cook macaroni according to package directions, adding broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and celery during the last 6 minutes of cooking. Drain; transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish., Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, heat butter over medium-high heat; saute onion until tender. Stir in flour until blended. Gradually stir in milk and broth; bring to a boil. Cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes; stir in cheese, mustard, salt and pepper. , Add to macaroni mixture, stirring to coat; sprinkle with paprika. Bake, uncovered, until heated through, 15-20 minutes.

VEGGIE LOVERS' STOVETOP MAC & CHEESE

Steps:

• Steam the veggies. Fill a large pot with about 1 inch of water. Set a vegetable steamer inside and set over high heat. Place the veggies on the steamer. (If you don't have a vegetable steamer, just place the vegetables directly in the water). Cook, covered, until the vegetables are lightly tender, 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and drain in a colander. Set aside. You can also steam the veggies in the microwave by adding them to a microwave-safe bowl along with about 1/4 cup of water. Top with a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for about 3 minutes, until the veggies are tender. Be careful when removing the plate - lots of steam will escape!
• Make the mac and cheese. (Note: Have all of your cheeses grated and ready at this point!) Place the milk, pasta and seasonings in a medium stock pot (you'll want a pot with high sides because you'll be adding everything to this pot later) over medium-low heat.
• Stirring often so pasta doesn't stick, cook until pasta is al dente (time will vary by brand/shape) and milk starts to thicken.
• Remove the pot from heat. Slowly sprinkle in the grated cheese, stirring constantly, until melted.
• Add the vegetables and stir gently until everything is well combined and coated in the milk and cheese sauce. Season to taste with more salt and pepper, if desired.
• Serve. Spoon into bowls and top with a sprinkling of breadcrumbs and/or red pepper flakes.