Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a healthy twist on the classic comfort food dish, swapping out traditional pasta for nutritious cauliflower. It's a great way to indulge in a creamy, cheesy mac and cheese while also getting a serving of vegetables. Here is a recipe along with tips and tricks to make the most delicious Cauliflower Mac and Cheese.
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Dish name: Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Cuisine: American
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (regular or a low-fat variety)
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Boil or steam the cauliflower florets until just tender, about 6-7 minutes, then drain well.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, ground mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the cauliflower florets until they are well coated with the cheese sauce.
Transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with bread crumbs if using.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips and Tricks:
Cauliflower Pre-Cooking: Avoid overcooking the cauliflower in the initial boil/steam to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Cheese Sauce: For a creamier sauce, use full-fat milk or even part heavy cream.
Cheese Variety: Mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for a different flavor profile, or use a smoked cheese for depth.
Seasoning: Feel free to add more spices to taste like onion powder, cayenne pepper, or a bit of nutmeg for warmth.
Breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over before baking.
Low Carb/Calories: Use skim milk and low-fat cheese varieties to reduce calorie content if desired.
Fresh vs Frozen Cauliflower: While fresh is best for flavor, frozen can be a convenient alternative.
Oven Finish: Broil the last 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness on top but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestion: Serve as a main dish with a side salad or as a hearty side to a protein like grilled chicken.
Enjoy your Cauliflower Mac and Cheese, an indulgent yet light dish that satisfies your craving for comfort food in a healthier way!
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