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–+ servings
Toxic Waste Mac and Cheese

Toxic Waste Mac and Cheese: A Spooky Twist on Comfort Food

This Toxic Waste Mac and Cheese is a spooky, nutrient-packed twist on a classic comfort food, perfect for Halloween gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitution: Use dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
  • ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour Substitution: Choose gluten-free flour to keep it gluten-free.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Substitution: Any plant-based milk can easily work.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt No substitutes needed.
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper No substitutes needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Substitution: Smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder No substitutes needed.
  • ½ teaspoon Dry Mustard Powder Substitution: Yellow mustard can work in a pinch.
  • ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to taste.
For the Cheese and Veggies
  • 2 cups Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (grated) Substitution: Try vegan cheese for a different twist.
  • 1 cup Frozen Spinach (thawed and drained) Substitution: Fresh spinach can substitute if preferred.
  • few drops Green Food Coloring Substitution: Natural food coloring can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 cup Fresh Cauliflower (cut and steamed) No substitutes needed.
For the Pasta
  • 3 cups Dry Pasta (cooked and drained) Substitution: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a light golden paste.
  2. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Add 1 teaspoon of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of dry mustard, and a pinch of cayenne. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until it thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of grated sharp white cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined. Adjust consistency with a splash of milk if necessary.
  4. Mix in 1 cup of thawed and drained frozen spinach and a few drops of green food coloring for the Halloween theme. Stir well.
  5. Fold in 3 cups of cooked pasta shells gently into the cheese sauce ensuring each shell is well-coated.
  6. Gently fold in 1 cup of steamed cauliflower florets and serve immediately while warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 600mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, reheat only the portion you'll be eating to maintain creaminess and flavor.

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