Macaroni And Vegetables
Creamy macaroni combined with fresh broccoli, cauliflower, ham, and Parmesan cheese creates a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling water for 6 to 8 minutes; drain and toss with a little oil.
- Steam broccoli and cauliflower flowerets until tender.
- Run steamed vegetables under cold water and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add salt, pepper, milk, Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard; cook until cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni, steamed vegetables, and diced ham to the sauce; stir well to combine and heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the ham and add cooked beans or chickpeas for protein. This dish is versatile and can include other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni and vegetables as a hearty main dish or alongside a crisp salad, such as Light Broccoli Salad, for a balanced meal. This dish also pairs well with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with a light dessert like fruit salad or yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and vegetable mixture in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to prevent dryness. Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Vegetables contains roughly 164 calories, with 12g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (72% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2379mg per serving (103% 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 gluten-free macaroni for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Just ensure that you follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary. The sauce will work well with gluten-free pasta, maintaining the creaminess and flavor.
What can I substitute for cheese if I'm lactose intolerant?
If you're lactose intolerant, consider using lactose-free cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a great option for adding a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just mix it into the sauce to achieve that rich taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. You can also add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper while cooking the vegetables for an extra kick.
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).