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Cozy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese Muffin Cups

hidden veggie mac and cheese muffin cups - featured image
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These cozy mac and cheese muffin cups sneak in pureed veggies for a kid-friendly, comforting snack or meal that’s quick, easy, and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni (about 200g), cooked al dente
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 170g)
  • ¾ cup whole milk (180ml)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 30g), melted
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16g)
  • 1 cup pureed veggies (about 150g) – steamed carrots and cauliflower
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ¼ cup panko bread crumbs (25g), optional but recommended

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until smooth.
  3. Slowly whisk in ¾ cup milk, stirring constantly until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in ½ teaspoon mustard powder, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup pureed veggies with the cheese sauce.
  6. In a large bowl, add 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni. Pour cheese-veggie sauce over pasta and gently fold in the beaten egg.
  7. Spoon mixture evenly into muffin cups, pressing down lightly. Sprinkle about 2 teaspoons panko breadcrumbs on top of each cup.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes until tops are golden brown and edges are crisp.
  9. Let muffin cups cool in the tin for 5 minutes before removing.
  10. Serve warm, or at room temperature, or pack for lunches.

Notes

Puree veggies very smooth to avoid lumps. Cook pasta al dente to prevent soggy muffins. Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. Let muffins cool in the tin before removing to prevent crumbling. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute milk, cheese, flour, and breadcrumbs accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, hidden veggies, kids recipe, muffin cups, comfort food, cheesy snack, easy dinner

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/cozy-hidden-veggie-mac-and-cheese-muffin-cups-easy-recipe-for-kids/