Creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with tender broccoli, carrots, and peas for a hearty vegetarian meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 10 oz elbow macaroni
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
03 - 1 cup carrots, diced
04 - 1 cup frozen peas
→ Cheese Sauce
05 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
06 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
07 - 2 cups whole milk
08 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
09 - 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
10 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
11 - 1/2 tsp mustard powder
12 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Topping
14 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
15 - 1 tbsp melted butter
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook for 1 minute less than package directions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli and carrots. Add peas in the final minute. Drain well and set aside.
03 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until mixture forms a smooth paste.
04 - Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth.
05 - Combine drained pasta and vegetables with cheese sauce in the pot. Mix thoroughly until evenly coated. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish.
06 - If using, mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
