Veggie Mac & Cheese

Creamy, comforting, and veggie-packed, this toddler-approved mac is loaded with hidden nutrition, healthy fats, and gluten-free goodness.

Ingredients (Makes ~4 cups cooked mac & cheese)

Pasta Base:

• 2 cups raw pasta (whatever type you want to use - I used gluten free ^)

Creamy Veggie Cheese Sauce:

• ½ cup mashed sweet potato (steamed or roasted smooth)

• ½ cup steamed riced cauliflower

• ¼ cup almond milk

• 1-2 tbsp coconut cream

• 1-2 tbsp parmesan cheese (or to taste) - or a vegan cheese you like

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp onion powder

• Salt + pepper to taste (light for toddlers)

• Optional: 1 tsp nutritional yeast or 1 tsp goat cheese for extra depth

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil 2 cups of raw gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Veggie Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan or blender, combine:
→ Mashed sweet potato
→ Riced cauliflower
→ Almond milk
→ Coconut cream
→ Parmesan
→ Butter or olive oil
→ Garlic powder, onion powder, salt + pepper
Blend until smooth, or mash very well by hand.
Warm gently in a saucepan to melt cheese and bring everything together.

3. Mix & Serve
Pour sauce over pasta and stir to coat.
Heat over low until creamy and warmed through.
Adjust salt and liquid to desired consistency.

Notes

Ingredient Benefits:

• Sweet Potato = natural sweetness, vitamin A, and toddler appeal

• Cauliflower = hidden fiber and anti-inflammatory support

• Coconut Cream = creamy, dairy-light richness for hormone and skin health

• Parmesan = just enough umami without heavy dairy load

• Gluten-Free Pasta = gentle on digestion + easy to sub based on preference

Serving Suggestions:

• Spoon into silicone muffin cups and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes = perfect toddler mac bites

• Pair with steamed greens or a protein like shredded chicken or soft scrambled eggs

Storage Tips:

• Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3-4 days

• Freezer: Freeze sauce separately in silicone cubes for quick thaw-and-mix meals

• Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water to loosen sauce if needed