Creamy Noodles 'N' Vegetables
Creamy Noodles 'N' Vegetables offers a comforting blend of tender noodles, mixed vegetables, and a flavorful cream cheese sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of hot water to boiling.
- Add the noodles and return to boiling.
- Reduce heat and gently boil for 5 minutes, then add the frozen mixed vegetables.
- Return to boiling, then reduce heat and gently boil about 4 minutes more or until the pasta is tender and vegetables are nearly done.
- Drain the mixture, then return it to the saucepan.
- Add the cream cheese and milk.
- Cook and stir over medium heat until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or using half-and-half instead. You can substitute the frozen mixed vegetables with any fresh vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or spinach, for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a bit of spice, try adding crushed red pepper flakes. This dish is also great topped with grated Parmesan cheese, which pairs beautifully with Cream Cheese Icing(To Go With Carrot Cake).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy noodles 'n' vegetables dish as a hearty main course or as a side alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk and warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Noodles 'N' Vegetables contains roughly 82 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat noodles instead of regular noodles?
Yes, whole wheat noodles can be used in place of regular noodles for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat noodles may take a little longer to become tender.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to increase the protein content. Just stir in the protein during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).