Baked cauliflower macaroni cheese –Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy dish that brings comfort to any dinner table? Look no further than this baked cauliflower macaroni and cheese. This delightful recipe merges the classic comfort of mac and cheese with a healthier twist – all while being incredibly easy to make. Grab your apron and let’s get started!
Baked Cauliflower Macaroni and Cheese
Here’s a lovely image to get your appetite going:
This dish features tender cauliflower enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, making it a perfect centerpiece for your meal. You’ll find it’s a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables while savoring the flavors you love!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (whole or low-fat)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. You can also boil them in salted water if you prefer. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbling.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, steamed cauliflower, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is coated in that delicious cheese sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy heaven!
This baked cauliflower macaroni and cheese is not only delicious; it also brings a little twist to the traditional dish that everyone can appreciate. Enjoy this hearty meal with your family and friends!