Creamy macaroni and cheese elevated with tender peas, broccoli, and carrots. A hearty, veggie-packed comfort food the whole family will enjoy.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 10 oz elbow macaroni
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
03 - 1 cup carrots, diced
04 - 1 cup frozen peas
→ Cheese Sauce
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 - 2 cups whole milk
08 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
09 - 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
10 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
11 - 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
12 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
13 - Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Topping
14 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
15 - 1 tablespoon melted butter
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish and set aside.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add macaroni and cook for 1 minute less than package directions. In the final 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli and carrots. In the last minute, add peas. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
03 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until a smooth paste forms.
04 - Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
05 - Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until all cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
06 - Combine drained pasta and vegetables with cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
07 - If desired, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the mixture.
08 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
