One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese

Name: One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz macaroni pasta; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup milk (or a non-dairy alternative); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the creamy goodness of this One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese, a quick and easy dish that brings together your favorite pasta and wholesome vegetables in a delightful, cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this gluten-free recipe is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for the whole family. Enjoy the convenience of minimal cleanup without compromising on flavor!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-11-20T09:39:55.484Z

This dish has been a family favorite for years, combining the comfort of mac and cheese with the nutrition of vegetables.

A Quick and Nutritious Meal

One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese is not just a comforting dish; it's also a smart choice for those busy weeknights when you need to whip up dinner in a hurry. This recipe packs in a variety of vegetables, ensuring that you and your family are getting a healthy dose of nutrients with every bite. The combination of broccoli and bell peppers adds color, flavor, and vitamins, making this dish a balanced option that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Moreover, its simplicity doesn’t compromise on flavor. When you can toss everything into one pot and be left with a creamy, dreamy mac and cheese, it feels like a win-win situation. With no need for multiple pots and pans, you'll save time during prep and cleanup, allowing you to enjoy those precious moments with your loved ones.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the perks of this One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a heartier meal, substitute the macaroni with whole grain or gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it without worry.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables too! Zucchini, peas, or even spinach can be excellent additions. The world is your oyster when it comes to customizing this dish, making it an exciting dinner option that can change with the seasons or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese isn’t just a quick meal; it’s also fantastic for meal prepping. You can easily prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week to have on hand for lunches or dinners. Store it in individual containers, and you’ll have nutritious servings ready to go, making healthy eating easier than ever.

Additionally, the flavors of this mac and cheese improve as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Just warm it up and enjoy! This makes it an excellent dish to take to work or school, ensuring you have a filling meal that will keep you energized throughout your busy day.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz macaroni pasta
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and add the macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Add Vegetables

Once the pasta is cooked, add the broccoli and bell peppers. Stir and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Make it Cheesy

Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheese and milk. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese offers a wealth of nutritional benefits that can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Packed with fiber from the vegetables, it helps promote digestive health and provides essential vitamins that support your immune system. Broccoli is particularly high in vitamins K and C, while bell peppers offer a good dose of antioxidants which can help combat inflammation.

Moreover, including a source of calcium from the cheese and milk helps support strong bones. By swapping out regular pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options, you can further enhance its health benefits, making it a balanced meal that you can feel good about serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese, serve it alongside a crisp salad or some roasted vegetables. Fresh greens not only add nutrition but also bring a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Consider a light vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the cheese and pasta.

For those looking to make it a complete meal, pair it with protein sources such as grilled chicken or chickpeas. This way, you can satisfy a variety of dietary preferences while ensuring a well-rounded dinner that's sure to please everyone at the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include zucchini, peas, or any other favorite veggies.