Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe (Kid-Friendly)

Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe (Kid-Friendly)

from whatgreatgrandmaate.com
30 min

Super easy, hidden veggie mac and cheese for toddlers, kids, and picky eaters. Made with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s packed with sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and sharp cheddar cheese. You can't taste the veggies at all, and it turns out so creamy and wonderful!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz short pasta
  • 2 cups cauliflower florets (about ½ head cauliflower)
  • 1 cup cubed sweet potatoes (about ½ inches, peeled)
  • 1¼ cups full-fat milk (dairy or dairy free, divided - I used coconut milk)
  • 2 tbsp ghee (or butter)
  • 1 tbsp arrowroot starch (or flour)
  • 1½ cup shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp sea salt (or more to taste)
  • 1/8 tsp ground black pepper

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions, but slightly al dente. Drain and set aside without rinsing.

  2. 2

    Place a steamer basket in a large saucepan, and add 1½ cups water. Add cauliflower florets and sweet potato cubes to the basket. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer then cook for 8-10 minutes until fork tender.

  3. 3

    Transfer the steamed cauliflower and sweet potatoes to a blender with 1/2 cup milk. Blend until smooth.

  4. 4

    Heat a large pot over medium heat on the stovetop. Add ghee and arrowroot starch, and whisk until a roux is formed. Add 3/4 cup of milk and whisk continuously until it starts to boil.

  5. 5

    Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, and stir in cheese, veggie puree, garlic powder, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted.

  6. 6

    Remove from heat, and add cooked pasta and stir to combine. Taste to add more salt, if needed.

  7. 7

    Serve, or you can transfer to a baking dish and broil for 5 minutes to get it browned on top.