Fall Crockpot Mac and Veggie Cheese

Warm up your fall evenings with the Harvest Harmony Crockpot Mac and Veggie Cheese, a healthier twist on a beloved classic. This comforting dish combines creamy mac and cheese with seasonal vegetables like butternut squash, broccoli, and cauliflower for added nutrition. Perfect for busy families, it’s simple to prepare and cooks in your crockpot, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy a hearty meal that nourishes both body and soul, bringing memories and warmth to your table.

Print Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

3 cups vegetable broth

1 cup butternut squash, cubed

1 cup cauliflower florets

1 cup broccoli florets

1 cup carrots, diced

1 cup frozen peas

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Salt, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and cutting the butternut squash into small cubes. Chop the cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. If desired, you can sauté the onions in olive oil for added flavor prior to adding them to the crockpot.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot: In a large crockpot, combine the uncooked elbow macaroni, vegetable broth, cubed butternut squash, cauliflower florets, broccoli florets, diced carrots, and frozen peas.

Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution of ingredients and flavors.

Incorporate the Cheese and Milk: Pour the milk over the mixture, then add the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Do not stir yet; let the layers meld as they cook.

Cook the Mac and Cheese: Cover the crockpot and set it to low for about 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Check occasionally, ensuring there’s enough liquid, and add a splash of broth or milk if needed.

Final Mixing: Once the pasta is cooked and the cheese is melted and creamy, gently stir everything together in the crockpot until it’s uniformly combined. If it’s too thick, add more milk or broth to reach your desired creaminess.

Serve and Garnish: Ladle the mac and veggie cheese into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy warm as a comforting dish perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours | Servings: 6-8