My kids aren't picky eaters. I realize many parents don't have it quite so easy, so when my kids eat a bowl of vegetable chili without any cajoling, bribing, or tears, I thank my lucky stars. However, just because they'll eat their roasted lemon pepper Brussels sprouts when I put them on the table, doesn't mean they are actually asking for another serving of veggies.
In fact, when questioned about their food preferences, my kids will almost always request macaroni & cheese and hot dogs. Despite my best efforts to cultivate a love of quinoa, kale, and green beans, it turns out they are just kids and kids like mac and cheese.
As the parent on duty here, it's my job to make sure the kids practice violin, get those dirty clothes sorted into the correct color bags, and learn how to clear up the table after dinner. Every single day I annoy even myself with the constant reminders to please for the love of all that is holy put your shoes in the basket so we don't have to spend 15 frantic minutes searching for them every time we need to leave the house. Did you wash your hands? Did you hang up your backpack? Did you brush your teeth?
So, if I have to be the bad guy that calls bedtime and turns out the light on the absolute most important sentence in the best chapter of the final book in the Harry Potter series, well then Macaroni and Cheese from time to time is the least I can do.
Adapted from Better Homes & Gardens
This Baked Pumpkin Kale Macaroni and Cheese is a meal the kids and I both feel good about. With all the pumpkin and kale I've manage to squeeze into this recipe, I feel safe saying it is a healthier macaroni and cheese. I didn't, however, skimp on the cheese or cream because comfort food still needs to taste like comfort food, pumpkin and kale aside.
Baked Pumpkin Kale Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Lyndsey says
This looks absolutely delicious. Just in time for fall!
somethewiser@gmail.com says
Thanks! I'm ready for fall - bring on the pumpkin!
Thalia @ butter and brioche says
Never would have thought to add pumpkin and kale to mac and cheese before, great idea and one that I need to try!
somethewiser@gmail.com says
Thanks Thalia. The pumpkin adds a lot of creamy texture, along with good vitamins and minerals, without changing the flavor of mac & cheese too much. I hope you try it and like it!
Kristina @ Love & Zest says
Allison this recipe looks soooo good.. I love that you made it especially for the little eaters in your house.. a great way to sneak in some nutrition without them putting up a fit, huh? PS-- you're such a great mom! you inspire me 🙂
somethewiser@gmail.com says
Aww, thanks Kristina - you are so kind! The kids didn't suspect a thing - it was just cheese and more cheese as far as they were concerned!
Jessie {Life As A Strawberry} says
This sounds amazing - can't wait to try it!
somethewiser@gmail.com says
Thanks for stopping by Jessie! I hope you like it!
KP says
I made this last night and followed the recipe exactly. It was a big hit with the wife! Thank you.