When life gets busy, we all crave something cozy, easy, and nourishing—and this One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese is exactly that. It’s a creamy, cheesy classic with a colorful twist thanks to a hearty mix of vegetables. Think ultimate comfort food, but with a wholesome upgrade.
This recipe is made entirely in one pan (yes, even the pasta cooks in the same pot!), which means fewer dishes, more flavor, and dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s kid-friendly, veggie-packed, and perfect for weeknights when you need something fast, filling, and totally satisfying.
Let’s make magic in one pot!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cheesy wonder:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1/2 cup diced yellow onion
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1 tablespoon minced garlic
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1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
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3 tablespoons flour
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2 1/2 cups milk
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3 cups elbow macaroni (about 10 ounces)
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1 1/2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen – whatever you have on hand)
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1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (I love a combo of white sharp and mild cheddar)
How to Make One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese
You ready for this? One pot. No draining. No separate saucepans. Just dreamy, cheesy pasta in under 30 minutes.
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Sauté the flavor base:
Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until it releases its aroma. -
Build the roux:
Pour in 1/2 cup of the vegetable broth and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. -
Simmer it all:
Add the rest of the broth, milk, macaroni, and veggies. Stir well and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens. -
Cheese it up:
Remove from heat and stir in all that glorious cheddar until it’s melty and luscious. -
Serve immediately
Serve hot, with a little cracked pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling bold!
Details and Nutritional Information
This One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese is designed to be as convenient as it is comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a big bowl of creamy goodness—this dish fits right in.
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Servings: 6 generous portions
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Method: One-pan stovetop
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Skill Level: Easy – perfect for beginner cooks or busy weeknights!
Nutrition Per Serving:
(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may differ based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used).
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Calories: 531 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 68 g
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Protein: 21 g
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Fat: 18 g
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Saturated Fat: 8 g
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Cholesterol: 41 mg
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Sodium: 480 mg
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Potassium: 433 mg
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Fiber: 5 g
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Sugar: 7 g
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Calcium: 351 mg
Helpful Tips
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Stir frequently! This prevents sticking and helps the sauce thicken evenly.
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Keep an eye on the pasta. Cook just until al dente—you want tender but not mushy.
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Use block cheese if possible. It melts better and gives you that luxurious texture.
Substitutions & Variations
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Vegan? Swap the milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use vegan cheddar.
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Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend.
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Add-ins: Want more protein? Toss in cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken at the end.
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Spice it up: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a little kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! No need to thaw—just toss them in frozen when you add the pasta and milk.
What pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells or cavatappi are also amazing choices for catching all that cheesy goodness.
Can I make this ahead?
It’s best fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Storage Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you!
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Reheat: Warm it up on the stovetop or microwave with a little milk to loosen the sauce.
More Comforting Dishes You’ll Love
If this One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese brought a little joy to your table, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment, snap a pic, or tag me on social—your creations are the heart of this community.
Happy cooking, friends!