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Sneaky Zucchini Mac and Cheese with Everything Bagel Chip Crumbs.

Sneaky Zucchini Mac and Cheese with Bagel Chip Crunch

This Sneaky Zucchini Mac and Cheese with Everything Bagel Chip Crumbs is a comforting dish that cleverly incorporates hidden veggies.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces short cut pasta Perfect for catching all that creamy cheese.
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt Generous amount for boiling water.
For the Creamy Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and helps crisp the bagel chips.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Creates a smooth sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce.
  • 2 cups whole milk Provides a rich texture.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup zucchini Grated for a sneaky addition.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Bold flavor.
  • 1 cup Havarti cheese Adds buttery richness.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Boosts flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adds a spicy kick.
For the Topping
  • 2 everything bagels everything bagels Thinly sliced for topping.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking Sheet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

How to Make Sneaky Zucchini Mac and Cheese
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. In a bowl, mix sliced bagel pieces with olive oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway until golden brown. Set aside.
  3. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour for about a minute, then gradually add milk and 2 cups water, stirring constantly.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high, add pasta, and bring to a low boil. Stir frequently for about 15 minutes until pasta is al dente, adding extra water as needed.
  5. Stir in grated zucchini, cheddar, Havarti, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until cheese melts and coats pasta.
  6. Spoon into bowls and top with crispy bagel chip crumbs. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley before serving.

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