One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender pasta, vibrant vegetables, and melty cheese, it’s a wholesome meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, spinach)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or vegan alternative)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté mixed vegetables for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Step 2: Add elbow macaroni and pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Step 3: Reduce heat to simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 8-10 minutes until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Step 4: Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Step 5: Season with salt, pepper, and any preferred spices before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Try swapping in different vegetables like peas, carrots, or zucchini based on what you have on hand.
- Use vegan cheese and vegetable broth to make this dish fully plant-based.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of milk or a dollop of cream cheese before adding the shredded cheese.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, penne, or rotini. Adjust cooking times as needed.
What can I do if I don’t have vegetable broth?
You can use water instead, but adding a bit of seasoning like garlic powder, onion powder, or vegetable bouillon cubes will boost the flavor.
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One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese is a quick, comforting, and wholesome recipe combining tender pasta with sautéed vegetables and creamy melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it uses simple ingredients cooked all in one pot for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Pasta and Broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, spinach)
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or vegan alternative)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly tender and aromatic.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Simmer Pasta: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheese thoroughly until it melts completely, creating a creamy texture.
- Season and Serve: Season the mac and cheese with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste or any other preferred spices. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal.
Notes
- You can substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta like shells or penne.
- Use vegetable broth for extra flavor or water for a lighter dish.
- For a vegan version, use vegan cheese and olive oil.
- Add spice by including a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of broth or water.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: one pot, mac and cheese, vegetarian, easy dinner, quick meal, creamy pasta, healthy, mixed vegetables
