Sneak Attack Mac N Cheese
Get ready to redefine comfort food with "Sneak Attack Mac N Cheese," a creamy, indulgent twist on the classic dish that packs a hidden punch of nutrition! This family-friendly recipe combines velvety cheddar, gruyere, and cream cheese with a luscious purée of carrots, cauliflower, and spinach—expertly blended to sneak veggies into every bite without sacrificing that rich, cheesy flavor you love. Finished with a golden, crispy parmesan-breadcrumb topping, this baked mac and cheese delights all ages and offers a perfect balance of heartiness and hidden health benefits. Ideal for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this dish pairs wholesome goodness with easy prep, making it a favorite in any household.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup carrot, diced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Steam the diced carrot and cauliflower florets until tender, about 7-10 minutes. Let them cool slightly before blending with the chopped spinach in a food processor until smooth.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the cheddar, gruyere, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, nutmeg, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Fold the vegetable puree into the cheese sauce, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, stirring gently until fully coated.
Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the mac and cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your nutrient-packed 'Sneak Attack Mac N Cheese'!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
948 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.8 g | 70% | |
| Saturated Fat | 31.7 g | 159% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 156 mg | 52% | |
| Sodium | 1083 mg | 47% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 82.2 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.7 g | 17% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.0 g | ||
| Protein | 33.9 g | 68% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.5 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 684 mg | 53% | |
| Iron | 4.0 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 473 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
