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Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese

Great way to incorporate veggies for those picky toddlers/kids!

Ingredients:

1 cup cauliflower florets - fresh or frozen (steamed)

1 cup chopped butternut squash - fresh or frozen (steamed)

1 cup chopped carrots - fresh or frozen (steamed)

1/2-2/3 cup Chicken Stock amount can vairy (I get the one with highest protein content)

1 cup milk

2TBS cream cheese

2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese (can substitute for a different cheese) - also fresh shredded is best!

Directions:

1. Steam all veggies, blend with chicken stock (I usually use about 1/2-2/3 cup)

2. Add puréed veggies to pot add milk, cream cheese, and shredded cheese whisk all together med low heat (the high heat can make the cheese stringy)

3. Mix with cooked pasta and serve! (For more protein you can cook pasta in chicken stock instead of water)

#momvibes #lemon8challenge #hiddenveggies #pickyeaters #healthyrecipes

2/2 Edited to

Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese is an ideal solution for parents looking to sneak in some veggies into their children's meals without them noticing. This recipe cleverly incorporates steamed vegetables like cauliflower, butternut squash, and carrots into a creamy cheese sauce, making it both healthy and delicious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the vegetable quantities based on what's available in your kitchen or your child's preferences. For instance, if your child prefers a particular cheese, feel free to substitute the white cheddar with their favorite. To enhance protein content, consider cooking the pasta in chicken stock instead of water, which not only adds a rich flavor but also promotes healthier eating habits. Cooked pasta combined with this veggie-infused cheese sauce results in a comforting dish that will surely satisfy hungry little ones. Moreover, this recipe is not just limited to lunch or dinner; it can be served as an after-school snack too. Pair it with some whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal. As a final tip, involving your kids in the cooking process can also help them appreciate the flavors and urge them to try new foods. Encourage them to help with washing and blending the vegetables or even stirring the sauce. This family activity can make mealtime more fun and engaging, transforming the eating experience into a playful adventure. Try out this Hidden Veggie Mac & Cheese recipe and turn veggie resistance into delight!

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