Sneak Attack Mac N Cheese

Get ready to redefine comfort food with "Sneak Attack Mac N Cheese," a creamy, indulgent twist on the classic dish that packs a hidden punch of nutrition! This family-friendly recipe combines velvety cheddar, gruyere, and cream cheese with a luscious purée of carrots, cauliflower, and spinach—expertly blended to sneak veggies into every bite without sacrificing that rich, cheesy flavor you love. Finished with a golden, crispy parmesan-breadcrumb topping, this baked mac and cheese delights all ages and offers a perfect balance of heartiness and hidden health benefits. Ideal for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this dish pairs wholesome goodness with easy prep, making it a favorite in any household.

Nutriscore Rating: 55/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
• 0.25 tsp nutmeg
• 1 cup carrot, diced
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

Steam the diced carrot and cauliflower florets until tender, about 7-10 minutes. Let them cool slightly before blending with the chopped spinach in a food processor until smooth.

Step 4

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.

Step 5

Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 6

Stir in the cheddar, gruyere, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, nutmeg, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 7

Fold the vegetable puree into the cheese sauce, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Step 8

Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, stirring gently until fully coated.

Step 9

Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 10

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the mac and cheese.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 12

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your nutrient-packed 'Sneak Attack Mac N Cheese'!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2206.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5907.2

Total Fat 331.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 187.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.5g
Cholesterol 937.1mg	0%
Sodium 7794.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 511.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 29.3g	0%
Total Sugars 61.3g
Protein 215.3g	0%

Vitamin D 286.7IU	0%
Calcium 4047.5mg	0%
Iron 27.3mg	0%
Potassium 2444.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.7%

Protein: 14.6%

Carbs: 34.7%