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Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts, often evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Among the myriad of comfort foods, mac and cheese stands out as a perennial favorite, cherished for its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. However, in a world increasingly focused on health and nutrition, the classic mac and cheese can sometimes feel a bit indulgent. That’s where the recipe for Creamy Crockpot Mac & Veggies comes into play. This innovative dish combines the nostalgic appeal of traditional mac and cheese with the nutritional benefits of vegetables, making it a perfect choice for families and busy individuals alike.

Crockpot Mac and Veggies

Discover the best of comfort food with this Creamy Crockpot Mac & Veggies recipe, blending the nostalgic flavors of mac and cheese with healthy vegetables. Perfect for busy families, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. Enjoy rich, cheesy goodness and vibrant colors from broccoli, bell peppers, and peas. Set it and forget it in your crockpot for a warm, satisfying meal that aligns with your health goals. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it's a tasty treat that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup frozen peas

1 cup chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)

1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)

1/2 cup diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base: In a large crockpot, combine the uncooked elbow macaroni, vegetable broth, and milk, stirring to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. This creates a creamy base for your dish.

    Add Veggies: Incorporate the frozen peas, chopped broccoli, diced bell peppers, diced onion, and minced garlic into the mixture. Gently stir everything together to evenly distribute the vegetables throughout the pasta.

      Season: Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all seasonings are thoroughly blended into the pasta and vegetable mixture.

        Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for approximately 3 to 4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded together. If possible, give it a gentle stir halfway through the cooking time to promote even cooking.

          Cheesy Finish: Once the pasta is fully cooked, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir well until the cheese has melted and creates a rich, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

            Serve: Before serving, garnish your creamy mac and veggies with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch and an added burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, veggie-loaded mac and cheese!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 4 hours | 6 servings