This cauliflower mac and cheese recipe is a healthier alternative to the traditional version, while still maintaining that creamy and cheesy texture. The cauliflower adds a subtle sweetness and extra nutrients to the dish, making it a guilt-free indulgence for any mac and cheese lover. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Boil a pot of water and cook the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cauliflower with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same pot of water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked cauliflower and macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Enjoy your creamy and cheesy cauliflower mac and cheese!
Interesting Facts
Cauliflower is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
Using cauliflower in place of some of the pasta in mac and cheese can help reduce the overall calorie and carb content of the dish.
This recipe is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters who may not normally enjoy cauliflower.