One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese is a quick, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender pasta, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese, it’s a wholesome dish that comes together easily in just one pot. Enjoy a flavorful, fuss-free dinner 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

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté mixed vegetables for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
2. Step 2: Add elbow macaroni and pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
3. Step 3: Reduce heat to simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 8-10 minutes until pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Step 5: Season with salt, pepper, and any preferred spices before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or plant-based milk when stirring in the cheese.
• Swap mixed vegetables with your favorites or seasonal produce for varied flavors and textures.
• Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan-friendly cheesy flavor.
• To boost protein, mix in cooked beans or lentils before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth or milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like shells, rotini, or penne works well. Just adjust cooking time as needed since different pasta shapes may cook at different rates.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and check that your vegetable broth and other ingredients are gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 106 reviews

A comforting and easy one-pot veggie mac and cheese recipe that combines tender pasta, wholesome mixed vegetables, and creamy melted cheese for a delicious, quick meal perfect for busy weeknights.

• Author: Viktoria
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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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)

Cheese and Seasonings

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or vegan alternative)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 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, enhancing their flavor and texture.
2. Add Pasta and Broth: Stir in the elbow macaroni, then pour in the vegetable broth. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the pasta begins to cook evenly.
3. Simmer Pasta: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts completely, forming a creamy sauce that coats the pasta and vegetables.
5. Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Mix well and serve hot for a satisfying meal.

Notes

• You can use any pasta variety you prefer or have on hand.
• For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese alternatives.
• Add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
• If the mac and cheese becomes too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or milk to loosen it up.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on seasonality or preference.

Keywords: one pot mac and cheese, vegetarian mac and cheese, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, creamy cheese pasta, vegetable mac and cheese