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Roasted Vegetable Macaroni & Cheese Recipe

Roasted Vegetable Macaroni & Cheese is the perfect marriage of comfort and nutrition. With roasted zucchini, peppers, and carrots nestled in creamy cheddar-mozzarella sauce and topped with crunchy herb breadcrumbs, this dish is a vegetarian masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 zucchini diced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper chopped
  • 1 cup carrots chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or gluten-free alternative
  • 2 cups milk or unsweetened plant milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs regular or gluten-free
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for topping
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots in 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
  • While vegetables are roasting, cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly, until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes).
  • Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  • Combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl or baking dish.
  • In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp olive oil, and Italian herbs. Sprinkle over the pasta.
  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.
  • Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, but block cheese melts creamier.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Mix in some cooked turkey bacon bits for extra protein.
  • Make it ahead and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
  • Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta for extra nutrition.