14 Veggie-Filled Mac and Cheese Recipes for Spring

veggie mac and cheese spring recipes

There are some things that immediately bring you back to childhood, and a steaming hot bowl of macaroni and cheese is one of them. Nothing beats a chilly day like some homemade mac 'n' cheese, but as the weather gets warmer, we start to crave a little more freshness in our meals. Get the best of both worlds with these 14 veggie-filled macaroni and cheese recipes perfect for spring dining.

Goat Cheese Mac and Cheese With Broccoli

Put a grown-up twist on your mac and cheese by adding some tangy goat cheese to the mix. Throw in some roasted broccoli to add a sweet earthiness to the dish. (via The Wooden Skillet)

Kale and Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

It's double the veggie trouble in this mac and cheese recipe. Kale brings some color to the dish, while cauliflower adds extra nutrients and fiber. (via Modern Little Victories)

Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

It sounds too good to be true, but you can make a very creamy vegan “cheese" sauce out of vegetables. Butternut squash, potatoes, and cauliflower are blended with cashews and other flavorful ingredients to create a heathy version of the comfort-food classic. (via Delicious Everyday)

Turkey, Bacon, and Brussels Sprouts Mac and Cheese

Turn mac and cheese from an indulgent side into a full meal with the addition of extra protein and veggies. Turkey, bacon, and Brussels sprouts make this dish an easy meal-in-one. (via Scrummy Lane)

Prosciutto and Asparagus Orecchiette

Prosciutto, asparagus, and orecchiette combine in the fanciest mac and cheese ever. Each bite is bathed in a creamy Parmesan wine sauce — you'll want to lick the plate. (via The Baking Fairy)

Baked Mac and Cheese With Tomatoes

Sweet and tangy tomatoes bring this dish to the next level. It helps balance out the richness of the cheese sauce, so your palate never gets bored. (via The Country Contessa)

Green Mac and Cheese

Kids will love that this mac and cheese is green, and adults will heart the flavor. It's made with sharp cheddar cheese, which adds some piquant flavor to the spinach, peas, and broad beans that are stirred into the pasta. (via Raising Sugar Free Kids)

Veggie Mac and Cheese Muffins

Mac and cheese muffins are so fun to eat you won't even realize they're full of good-for-you vegetables. Pureed veggies are added right to the cheese mixture, melding seamlessly with the other flavors. (viaFamily Food on the Table)

Mexican Street Corn Mac and Cheese

Sweet and savory is always the best combination, and this recipe has got it big time. Tangy cheddar cheese sauce adds the savory, then is boosted by sweet corn on the cob doused in mayo, cheese, and chili powder, for a pasta dish that'll leave you more than satisfied. (via Zen & Spice)

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Sweet potato steps in to make this mac and cheese healthier than usual. That means you can add extra bacon for a smokey flavor that really makes the dish sing. (via Kidgredients)

Roasted Cauliflower Shells and Cheese

Shells are one of the best pasta shapes because each little hollow scoops up plenty of cheesy sauce (in this case, made from fontina). Roasted cauliflower adds texture and a nice depth of flavor to round out the meal. (via How Sweet Eats)

Spicy Roasted Veggie Mac and Cheese

Sometimes rich dishes need a kick of spice to achieve the right balance. Cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper add heat to this dish, and a heap of roasted veggies makes it a complete meal. (via The Comfort of Cooking)

Vegan Spicy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Vegan mac and cheese is surprisingly easy to make, thanks to creamy cashews and “cheesy" nutritional yeast. Stir in some spicy roasted broccoli and mushrooms for a dinner that the whole family will enjoy. (via Two Raspberries)

One Dish Corn Mac and Cheese

If you like cheesy corn casserole, you'll love this pasta dish. The addition of macaroni turns it from a side dish into an entree. (via Sugar and Soul)

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This post has been updated.

A few years ago, blogger Aaron Hutcherson from The Hungry Hutch teamed up with Meiko Drew of Meiko and the Dish to host a Black History Month Virtual Potluck. In an article on Tasting Table, Hutcherson wrote: "This virtual potluck is our small part to show society that 'black food' is more than fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and collard greens (though there's some of that too)." A number of bloggers created one dish for the occasion, and that means that you can try something new every day. And we're totally here for the diverse cuisines featuring African, Caribbean, Southern, and Creole recipes. We're fixing you a plate so sit back and relax because you're definitely in for a delicious meal.

Scroll on for the tastiest Black History Month recipe inspo!

Better-Than-Jiffy Cornbread

Brandi's Foodie Diary

Nobody will be able to resist this buttery skillet cornbread that has a beautiful crust on the edges and is super moist on the inside. Who's ready for a slice? (via Brandi's Foodie Diary)

Honey Turmeric Chicken

The Seasoning Bottle

The word "tender" does not even begin to describe just how moist these chicken thighs are. And honey and turmeric are both known for their healing health benefits so go ahead, have another piece. You have the ultimate built-in excuse. (via The Seasoning Bottle)

Shrimp In Spicy Cream Sauce

This Bago Girl

These spicy shrimp are super succulent and pair well with any southern side, like mashed potatoes. (via This Bago Girl)

Sausage-Stuffed Collard Green Wraps

Beautiful Eats & Things

These stuffed collard green wraps are really a whole meal rolled into one bite, and we are so ready to try it. (via Beautiful Eats & Things)

Nigerian Jollof Rice

Dash of Jazz

There's rice, and then there's *this* spiced jollof rice that's known for its unbelievable flavors, which hail from Nigeria. (via Dash of Jazz)

Olive Oil-Braised Collard Greens

Eat. Drink. Frolic.

Honestly, it doesn't matter how collard greens are cooked, they will always have a place on our table. Braised in olive oil and seasoned just right, these greens have an indescribably amazing taste. (via Eat. Drink. Frolic.)

Pilau Masala

Chocolate for Basil

We've said it once, and we'll say it again: There's nothing better than a generous serving of spiced rice. Trust us, you need to be adding pico to all of your rice dishes. (via Chocolate for Basil)

Bourbon & Peach-Glazed Salmon

Marisa Moore Nutrition

For a show-stopping salmon recipe, grab a bag of frozen peaches and cook it down with honey for a tasty peach glaze. The flavor contrast between the peaches and chipotle peppers will release fireworks on your taste buds. (via Marisa Moore Nutrition)

Creole Seafood Courtbouillon

Beyond The Bayou

Red snapper, blue crab, and shrimp. Can you really pass on this recipe, pronounced coo-be-yon, that's cooked in stewed tomatoes and a seafood stock with a splash of white wine? (via Beyond The Bayou)

Creamy Seafood Stew

Savory Spicerack

How does fish and shrimp swimming in a pool of coconut cream with leeks, celery, and blackening seasoning sound to you? We think we can all agree — delicious. (via Savory Spicerack)

Crawfish Étouffée

High Heels & Good Meals

Pronounced eh-too-fay, it means "smothered" in French and consists of mouthwatering seafood in a classic Cajun roux. This 30-minute recipe is made with crawfish, but feel free to sub with shrimp, if you desire. (via High Heels & Good Meals)

Buttermilk Biscuits with Fried Chicken & Honey Tabasco

Food Is Love Made Edible

Sink your teeth into this perfectly crunchy fried chicken, and don't stop until you reach the fluffy biscuits with a drizzle of honey sauce. (via Food Is Love Made Edible)

Sweet Desserts Fit For A Black History Month Potluck

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pudding with Maple Glaze

D.M.R. Fine Foods

There are some classic dessert combos that will never get old, and this is definitely one of them. When you combine crusty bread with eggs to make a fluffy bread pudding, you can't possibly just eat one bowl. (via D.M.R. Fine Foods)

Candied Bourbon Peach Cobbler

Meiko and the Dish

Feast your eyes on that buttery, flaky crust enveloping bourbon-drenched peaches. A spoonful of your favorite ice cream is definitely necessary to top things off. (via Meiko and the Dish)

Fried Peach Pies

Domestic Dee

Grab a couple of peaches and lots of cinnamon to make these crispy, flaky hand pies. They have all the scrumptious flavors you know and love from your favorite aunt's peach pie, just in a smaller size. (via Domestic Dee)

Orange Bundt Cake with Vanilla Glaze

The Hungry Hutch

This cake is so beautiful, that you'd never guess that it's not made with fresh oranges but rather orange juice instead. (via The Hungry Hutch)

Blackberry Cobbler

Simply LaKita

Are we the only ones salivating at these beautiful ramekins piled high with homemade crust, sweetened blackberries, and vanilla ice cream? Pro tip: Add some lemon zest to the fruit to intensify the flavors. (via Simply LaKita)

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This post has been updated.

While we impatiently wait for the Fourth Wingcast rumors to be confirmed (eek!), we have even better news of another must-see fantasy adaptation — the Children of Blood and Bone movie cast is here! Not only will this book-turned-movie premiere in theaters, but it's legendary cast includes greats like Viola Davis and Idris Alba. This Tomi Adeyemi book is a magical fantasy full of deep messages about culture and belonging that made it to our best books to read list last year, so you know we can't wait for this film!

Want to know more? Here's who else joined the cast, what fans think, and when you can officially see this highly-anticipated movie!

Scroll to find out everything you need to know about the Children of Blood and Bone movie!

What is 'Children of Blood and Bone' about?

Amazon

Children of Blood and Bone follows young Zélie Adebola as she fights to reclaim the magic that made her people wise and powerful. Her own mother was a Reaper, but lost her life the day all the magic was stolen via orders of a merciless and vengeful king. She partners with her brother Tzain and a rebellious princess to right the wrongs of history even if it means risking their lives.

Who's in the 'Children of Blood and Bone' movie cast?

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

Based on a report by Variety, the cast will feature MANY familiar faces! The following actors have already secured roles:

  • Viola Davis as Mama Agba
  • Thuso Mbedu as Zelie
  • Damson Idris as Prince Anan
  • Tosin Cole as Tzain
  • Amandla Stenberg as Princess Amari
  • Chiwetel Ejiofor as King Saran
  • Cynthia Erivo as Admiral Kaea
  • Idris Elba as Lekan
  • Lashana Lynch as Jumoke
Variety also reports the following may join the cast:
  • Regina King (The Harder They Fall) as Queen Nehanda
  • Diaana Babnicova (Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot) as Folake
  • Bukky Bakray (Rocks) as Binta
A casting call for Nigerian actors will roll out as the film's production gets underway.

What has Tomi Adeyomi said about the cast and who's directing Children of Blood and Bone?

Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

Tomi Adeyemi shared the announcement January 23 on TikTok, and she was all smiles as she shared the news with her fans. Variety reports her inspiration for writing her Orisha series was a result of being "motivated by anger" after watching The Hunger Games and seeing the negativity surrounding the casting.

“I’m the kind of person who gets motivated by anger," Adeyemi shared with EW. "So I was like, ‘Oh man, I’m going to write a story that’s so good and so Black that everyone’s going to have to read it even if you’re racist.' That became my writing mission.”

It's a good thing screenwriter and director Gina Prince-Bythewood (The Woman King, The Old Guard, The Secret Lives of Bees) is set to bring her creative insights to the Children of Blood and Bone movie. She said, "I am so honored and excited to bring Tomi’s ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ and the vibrant world of Orisha to life (via Variety).

In her opinion, she feels the cast "reflects the whole of the diaspora," stating "this is where our magic lies."

What are fans saying about the 'Children of Blood and Bone' cast reveal?

Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

Based on the comments on Adeyemi's cast announcement video, fans have mixed feelings. One comment said, "just saw amandla and let out the deepest sigh 🙃" while another person wrote, "Is this real?!?!?!??!?! This cast is FANTASTIC!!!!"

But seriously, when can we see Idris Elba in 'Children of Blood and Bone'? 

Matt Winkelmeyer

We regret to inform you that you'll have to wait to see Idris Elba as Lekan because the Children of Blood and Bone movie won't premiere until January 15, 2027!

Be sure to buy your copy of Children of Blood and Bone today, and see the other book-to-film adaptions we're excited about!
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Eating healthy does not have to be boring. Nowadays, there are plenty of options to help you stay on track – and these 15 superfood recipes are our absolute faves! Incorporating superfoods into your diet means you’ll get more antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, healthy fats, and protein on a daily basis, which ultimately can support a balanced, healthy lifestyle. A lot of superfoods are even known to improve your immunity, heart health, andgut health score!

Scroll on for 15 superfood recipes that are nourishing, easy to make, and super satisfying.

What are superfoods?

Jane Trang Doan / PEXELS

According to Cleveland Clinic, superfoods are a type of “super-charged, super-healthy foods,” especially ones that are typically nutrient-dense while boasting a low calorie count.

Generally, superfoods support heart health, a strong immune system, reduced inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and can even help with cancer prevention.

Avocado, berries, beets, dark leafy greens, garlic, ginger, legumes, lentils, salmon, and yogurt are just a few of the most common superfoods.

What is the healthiest superfood?

Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS

The “healthiest” superfood might depend on what you consider healthy. For someone that prioritizes protein, salmon might be the healthiest superfood for them. Meanwhile, someone that’s aiming to eat more fiber might think dark leafy greens are the healthiest option for them.

How can I eat more superfoods?

Людмила Самсонова / PEXELS

You can eat more superfoods by incorporating them into easy superfood recipes like the ones we’ve listed below! Superfood recipes don’t have to be obviously healthy, and these delicious dishes prove it.

The Best Superfood Recipes For Healthy Eating In 2025

Half Baked Harvest

Kale Caesar Salad with Sweet Potatoes & Crispy Chickpeas

Dark, leafy greens like kale are a great superfood for getting in lotsa vitamins and fiber. Try out this bulked-up Caesar salad prepped with lemony parmesan tahini dressing. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Vikalinka

Creamy Orzo Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash

This orzo-based dish makes a perfect comfort meal that's still very healthy for you. Spinach and sweet potato add some great nutrients, plus you could make the dish more filling by adding a protein source of your choice! (via Vikalinka)

The Real Food Dietitians

Sheet Pan Veggie Shawarma with Lemon Tahini Dressing

Veggies on veggies! This sheet pan meal is loaded with a zesty Mediterranean flavor that'll keep you coming back for more. And more. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

The Girl on Bloor

Easy BBQ Salmon with Avocado Salsa

Salmon is a known superfood that delivers beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Since it can be less than appealing on its own, spice it up with some of this delish homemade avocado salsa! (via The Girl on Bloor)

The First Mess

Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Crispy Cabbage and Sweet Mustard Dressing

Legumes like chickpeas are another nutritious superfood to keep stocked in your kitchen. This "pilaf-like" recipe will encourage your love for chickpeas even more. (via The First Mess)

Earthly Provisions

Vegan Creamy Tuscan Butter Beans

Just a single skillet and 15 minutes are all you need to craft this creamy vegan dinner recipe. The garlic, spinach, and hummus make it totally superfood-worthy, though you wouldn't initially guess it was packed with healthy stuff. (via Earthly Provisions)

Crowded Kitchen

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate & Candied Pecans

Fruit and veg together can be really yummy. The proof is in this ahh-mazing shaved Brussels sprouts salad! (via Crowded Kitchen)

No Eggs or Ham

Lemongrass Cauli-Rice Bowl with Sweet Ginger Mushrooms

Dense in nutrients, mushrooms are a superfood must-have. Combine 'em with anti-inflammatory ginger, and your body's gonna feel so nourished! (via No Eggs or Ham)

The Original Dish

Roasted Broccolini with Calabrian Chile Vinaigrette

A good rule of thumb for healthy eating is getting lots of greens in. Start with this addictive AF broccolini-based side dish that's delicious dressed with a spicy vinaigrette. (via The Original Dish)

Gastroplant

Easy Lentil & Sweet Potato Chili

Healthy, legume-loaded chili? We're here for it. (via Gastroplant)

Veggie Society

Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry

This healthy stir fry beats takeout any day of the week, plus, it's not at all labor-intensive to make. (via Veggie Society)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip

This dip's made with 2 bags of fresh spinach to give you all that great, green goodness. This recipe is perfect for snacky. meal preppers or if you have a potluck party to attend. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Vanilla and Bean

Avocado Toast with Roasted Asparagus

Avocados are a superfood known to be heart-healthy, gut-healthy, and rich in healthy fats. Sounds like an everyday avo toast is in store! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Completely Delicious

Asian-Glazed Sheet-Pan Salmon & Broccoli

Chef up some salmon in any way you like, but this Asian-inspired recipe is absolutely the best route to go. (via Completely Delicious)

Whole and Heavenly Oven

Instant Pot Butter Chickpeas

You need to check out these chickpeas. Packed with Indian spices, yogurt, garlic, and ginger, you're gonna fall in love with this Instant Pot beauty. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

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Did you know there are 7 types of rest that can help you relax better over time? Ever since I've started focusing on them, I've been craving the nights I'm able to get 8 hours of sleep. I'm not always successful, so I decided to ask mindfulness and meditation teacher Dora Kamu of Headspace and therapist and clinical social work Kiana Shelton, LCSW of Mindpath Health for their expert opinions.

Scroll to see the 8 key habits people who sleep 8 hours a night keep:

Vlada Karpovich

1. Meditate daily

Meditation is more than saying "ohm" while sitting with your legs crossed. While deep breathing does help to reset our nervous system, meditating is a way to help quiet our minds. Shelton says, "By working on reducing stress and anxiety, people can mitigate many issues that disrupt sleep" because "high stress levels can lead to overthinking and worrying," according to Kamu.

Vega DuPont

2. Bask In The Sun

Kamu says, "Morning sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which signals to your body when to wake and sleep. Aim for at least 10 minutes of sunlight early in the day to reset your internal clock." You can sit on your porch or balcony while drinking a nice cup of coffee or tea before starting your work day.

In the words of Sheryl Crowe, "I'm gonna soak up the sun. I'm gonna tell everyone to lighten up."

Ruxanda Photography

3. Go for daily walks

There's a reason why you see so many people talking about their love for hikes and daily walks. Not only can it help you reset during a busy day, it's generally a great way to connect to nature. Feeling the sun and breeze on your skin is a welcomed reprieve if you're otherwise glued to your computer screen during work.

Kamu says, "Exercise can promote a good night’s sleep. You don’t need to overdo it either. A brisk 30-minute walk or gentle yoga can significantly improve sleep quality." I use the Headspace app sometimes and have even listened to mindful meditations if I'm alone.

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA

4. Start journaling your thoughts

Kamu says aside from "mindfulness practices like meditation" or "deep breathing", journaling is a great way to "keep your mind calm and clear." Don't overthink whether you're supposed to be formal or informal either. All that's required are your unfiltered thoughts or how you feel in any moment.

Photo by Mike Jones: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-sitting-at-the-table-9052312/

5. Limit your caffeine intake

You and I love coffee, right? Kudos if it's a yummy cold brew that energizes us! But, Shelton and Kamu believe being mindful of what we're drinking throughout the day can help us get 8 hours of sleep. Why? "Your food and beverage choices can impact your sleep," Kamu warns. Her advice is to "avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and sugary drinks...to set yourself up for better rest."

Concerning caffeine, Shelton knows some of us have bad habits. "...while many of us may stop drinking coffee after the morning, caffeine is often present in favorite sodas and other beverages. Caffeine can wake the body up, making it harder to fall asleep." You know the beloved soda you just have to drink as a late 'pick-me-up?' It's likely confusing your body.

cottonbro studio

6. Skip Heavy Meals Before Bed

Kamu mentioned this earlier, but she says "what we consume can have a big impact on how we sleep." She highly suggests you skip "caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime" because they can "work against your nighttime wind-down." If you're craving something to drink or munch on, she recommends "a soothing herbal tea or light snack."

Ivan Samkov

7. Keep screen time to a minimum before bed

If experts have said it once, they'll say it again: people who get 8 hours of sleep are limiting their screen time before bed. Shelton says, "...they avoid cell phones and TV, stopping the use of electronic devices 30–60 minutes before bed." Although it doesn't seem 'blue' to us, Kamu says "the blue light from screens can trick your brain into thinking it's still daytime" which disrupts "your natural rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep."

She adds, "Give your devices a bedtime, too — try putting them away 2-3 hours before you turn in. If that feels like a stretch, dim your phone’s light or switch to dark mode to ease the strain on your eyes."

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA

8. Have A Consistent Bedtime

I've always heard the importance of kids having a routine they follow, but did you know we need to have them too? Kamu says, "As creatures of habit, our bodies thrive on consistency. A steady bedtime routine helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, preparing your mind and body for rest." She says you can "think of it as a nightly ritual to signal, 'It’s time to unwind.'"

Her tips are to:

  • Practice yoga nidra to relax and reset
  • Read a calming book to settle your thoughts
  • Take a warm shower or soak in a hot bath to soothe your muscles and invite restfulness (my favorite recommendation!)
Shelton also says, "Even on weekends, people who get the proper amount of sleep tend to go to bed around the same time regardless of the day of the week."

Shelton says, "One of the most impactful changes is to stop sacrificing sleep. Many people feel that nighttime is the only time they have to themselves, a phenomenon called Revenge Bedtime Procrastination (RBP). This mindset not only reduces the time available for sleep but also disrupts the body’s ability to regulate sleep hormones, such as melatonin."

In other words, prioritize your health so you can get the rest you need!

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Thin Mints are undeniably the best Girl Scout cookie flavor, which is why I’m so pumped to hear that Wendy’s is giving their regular Frosty roster a tasty upgrade in lieu of Girl Scout cookie season. That’s right – there’s a Thin Mints Frosty on the way, and I can already tell it’s going to be ahh-mazing!

Read on for everything we know about the Wendy’s Thin Mints Frosty.


Wendy's

Announced on January 27, 2025, Wendy’s is officially teaming up with Girl Scouts of the USA for the all-new Thin Mints Frosty, which will hit restaurants in February!

Wendy's

Per People, the Thin Mints Frosty will be concocted with a mint chocolate swirl that leverages the actual Thin Mints cookies to create a “crumbly, cookie butter-esque texture.” As far as the Frosty base goes, you’ll be able to order it in either of Wendy’s classic Frosty flavors: vanilla or chocolate.

Girl Scouts of the USA

I anticipate that the Thin Mints Frosty will simply be a 10/10 treat – or perhaps even a solid 11 or 12/10! It’s widely known that the crispy chocolate cookies are always better straight from the freezer (at least in my family), so knowing they're going to be incorporated into a frozen treat is truly so exciting.

Wendy's + Girl Scouts of the USA

The Thin Mints Frosty will be available nationwide – but only for a limited-time – starting Friday, February 21.

Girl Scouts of the USA

The 2025 Girl Scout cookie season began on January 7, with 12 flavors available for purchase. Girl Scouts of the USA did sadly announce two flavors, Girl Scout S’mores and Toast-Yay!, will not return for the 2026 cookie season. I luckily don’t see Thin Mints going anywhere – they’re a cult favorite!

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