Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe (Kid-Friendly)
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
Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions, but slightly al dente. Drain and set aside without rinsing.
- 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
Transfer the steamed cauliflower and sweet potatoes to a blender with 1/2 cup milk. Blend until smooth.
- 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
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
Remove from heat, and add cooked pasta and stir to combine. Taste to add more salt, if needed.
- 7
Serve, or you can transfer to a baking dish and broil for 5 minutes to get it browned on top.