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Kid Friendly One Pot Mac and Cheese with Veggies for Kids

Kid Friendly One Pot Mac and Cheese with Sneaky Veggies

A delightful and creamy Kid Friendly One Pot Mac and Cheese with Veggies that kids will love, sneaking in hidden nutrients for a wholesome dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 2 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Pasta Opt for durum-wheat for best results.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Freshly shredded for the creamiest melt.
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese Neufchâtel can be used as a lower-fat substitute.
  • 2 cups Milk Whole milk yields the richest texture.
Hidden Veggies
  • 1 medium Carrot Finely shredded.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Grated or pulsed in a food processor.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas No thawing needed.
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for enhancing flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder Enhances the taste with a distinctive kick.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a 4½–5 qt Dutch oven over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Prepare your ingredients: shred the cheddar cheese, dice the cream cheese, and grate the carrot and zucchini.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the heated pot and melt completely. Pour in the elbow pasta and stir for around 90 seconds until lightly golden.
  4. Pour in the milk and an equal amount of water. Sprinkle in kosher salt, garlic powder, and mustard powder, stirring gently.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes.
  6. Once pasta is al dente, lower heat and add diced cream cheese. Mix until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully incorporated. Add frozen peas directly into the pot.
  8. Let rest for 2 minutes, then stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Grate extra veggies and freeze for quick meals; taste test and adjust seasonings for picky eaters.

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