VEGGIE MACARONI & CHEESE

Veggie Macaroni & Cheese image

This creamy mac and cheese definitely doesn't come from a box! Fresh veggies add crunch and color and will leave everyone saying, "More, please!" -Marsha Morril, Harrisburg, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 45m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups fresh cauliflowerets
3 large carrots, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
2 celery ribs, sliced
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup 2% milk
1 cup chicken broth
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350°. In a 6-qt. stockpot, cook macaroni according to package directions, adding broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and celery during the last 6 minutes of cooking. Drain; transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish., Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, heat butter over medium-high heat; saute onion until tender. Stir in flour until blended. Gradually stir in milk and broth; bring to a boil. Cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes; stir in cheese, mustard, salt and pepper. , Add to macaroni mixture, stirring to coat; sprinkle with paprika. Bake, uncovered, until heated through, 15-20 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 200 calories, Fat 11g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 33mg cholesterol, Sodium 391mg sodium, Carbohydrate 15g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 10g protein.