Cauliflower Mac and Cheese: A Healthy Twist on a Classic

Savor the comforting flavors of our Cauliflower Mac and Cheese, a delightful and nutritious twist on the traditional favorite. This dish combines tender cauliflower with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, providing all the indulgence of mac and cheese without the pasta. Perfect for a satisfying meal or a tasty side dish, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into making this wholesome and delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it forms a roux and turns a light golden color.
4. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and is smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Combine with Cauliflower: Place the cooked cauliflower florets in a large baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower and stir gently to coat all the florets evenly.
7. Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the cauliflower mixture for an added crunchy texture.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbly.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

How to Prepare

The secret to this dish’s creamy and indulgent flavor lies in the rich cheese sauce and perfectly cooked cauliflower. The sauce’s smoothness is achieved by making a proper roux and gradually adding the milk, ensuring a lump-free consistency. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, enhancing the cheese’s sharpness. Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld and the topping to become golden and crispy.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: About 45 minutes

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare the dish and refrigerate before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.
• What can I serve with Cauliflower Mac and Cheese? It pairs well with a simple green salad, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
• Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free flour for the roux and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
• How can I make it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a bit of heat.