One Pot Veggie Mac & Cheese Quick and Creamy Meal

November 21, 2025July 3, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

– 2 cups elbow macaroni

– 4 cups vegetable broth

– 1 cup broccoli florets

– 1 cup diced bell peppers (a mix of red and yellow for color)

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

In this recipe, we use elbow macaroni as the base. It cooks well and holds sauce nicely. The vegetable broth adds rich flavor and helps cook the pasta. For veggies, I like to use broccoli, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. They bring color and a fresh taste to the dish.

Cheese Components

– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

The creamy cheese mix makes this dish special. Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor. Cream cheese helps create a smooth, rich sauce. Lastly, grated Parmesan on top adds a nice salty finish that makes every bite better.

Seasoning and Cooking Essentials

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

We start with olive oil to sauté the veggies. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth to the flavors. Don’t forget salt and pepper to bring everything together. This simple mix of seasonings makes the dish pop.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 cup of broccoli florets and 1 cup of diced bell peppers. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to soften and their colors to shine bright. This step makes your dish look fresh and appealing.

Cooking the Pasta

Next, add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the pot, along with 4 cups of vegetable broth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together to coat the pasta in the flavors. Raise the heat until the mixture gently boils. Once it boils, lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking. Your goal is tender pasta with most of the broth absorbed.

Combining the Cheeses

After the pasta cooks, take the pot off the heat. Mix in 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir well until the cheeses melt into a rich and creamy sauce. This is the magic moment! Gently fold in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Be careful not to smash them. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Now your One Pot Veggie Mac & Cheese is ready to dish out!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Texture and Flavor

To get the best texture, cook your pasta for about 10-12 minutes. This ensures the macaroni is tender but not mushy. Stir regularly to keep it from sticking. After cooking, taste the dish before serving. You might want to add more salt or pepper for a better flavor. Adjust as needed for your taste.

Enhancing Presentation

Serve your veggie mac and cheese in shallow bowls for a nice look. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top before adding fresh basil. This adds a nice shine and enhances the flavor. You can also mix in some extra cherry tomatoes for color.

Cleaning Up Easily

One pot means less mess! You only need one pot for cooking, which saves time on cleanup. To make it even easier, soak the pot in warm water right after serving. This helps loosen any stuck bits. A quick wash and you’re done!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change up the pasta type in this recipe. Try using whole wheat, gluten-free, or even spiralized zucchini. Each option brings a new twist to your dish.

For vegetables, the options are endless. You can swap broccoli for spinach, kale, or peas. Mix in carrots, zucchini, or even corn for a pop of color. Choose what you love or what you have on hand.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, add spices or herbs. A pinch of cayenne or paprika can add warmth. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten the dish.

You can also try different cheese blends. Instead of sharp cheddar, use gouda, mozzarella, or a mix. Each cheese adds its own unique taste.

Dietary Options

If you need a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta. Most brands taste great and cook well in this dish.

For vegan alternatives, replace cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based options. Cashew cream or nutritional yeast can give a creamy texture. Always check the labels for dairy-free choices.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidance

To store your leftover One Pot Veggie Mac & Cheese, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This will help you keep track of how long it has been stored.

Reheating Tips

When you want to enjoy your Veggie Mac & Cheese again, reheating is key. You can use the microwave or a pot on the stove. If using the microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals. Stir in between to keep it creamy. If using the stove, add a splash of vegetable broth. Heat on low until warm. Aim for a temperature of about 165°F for safety and best flavor.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to keep it longer, freezing works well. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, spoon it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for a delicious meal.

FAQs

Can I make One Pot Veggie Mac & Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the mac and cheese as directed. Once done, let it cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove. Add a splash of vegetable broth to help revive the creaminess.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you need a substitute for cream cheese, try using Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess and tang. Another option is to use cottage cheese blended until smooth. You could also try ricotta cheese for a slight variation in flavor. Each option gives a rich texture without changing the taste too much.

How do I make it spicier?

To add some heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a small pinch and taste as you go. You can also add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika. These options boost the flavor and heat of your mac and cheese.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add cooked beans for a healthy boost. Black beans or chickpeas work well. If you prefer tofu, use firm tofu and cook it with the veggies. For meat lovers, cooked chicken or sausage can enhance the dish. Just stir in your protein choice during the last few minutes of cooking.

This blog post covered how to make a delicious one-pot veggie mac and cheese. We discussed the key ingredients like macaroni, broth, and various cheeses. You learned step-by-step instructions to prepare the dish and tips for perfect textures and flavors. I shared variations to suit your taste and dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to store leftovers or freeze them for later. This meal is easy, tasty, and adaptable. Enjoy making this creamy comfort food your wa