New-Wave Macaroni And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish with fresh vegetables, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or comforting family meals with vibrant flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole, combine green onions, carrot, broccoli, macaroni, dry mustard, salt, pepper, and 2 cups water.
- Cook, uncovered, on High for 14 to 16 minutes, until macaroni is tender, stirring twice during cooking.
- Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Let stand for 2 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the mixture. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the water with milk. Feel free to swap out the Cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese, like Gruyere or Monterey Jack, to create a unique twist. This dish is a great opportunity to use up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the New-Wave Macaroni And Cheese with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Heather'S Carrot Cake for dessert, making it a delightful family dinner. For a vegetarian option, consider adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the dish before cooking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to maintain creaminess, cover, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This mac and cheese reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New-Wave Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 199 calories, with 9g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2229mg per serving (97% 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 macaroni instead of regular macaroni?
Yes, whole wheat macaroni can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it may require a slightly longer cooking time, so check for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time ends.
What can I substitute for green onions?
If you don't have green onions, you can use finely chopped yellow onions or shallots as a substitute. They will provide a similar flavor profile, though a bit more pungent. Just be sure to sauté them briefly before adding to the casserole if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge before cooking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to cook, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the refrigerator.
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).