Cauliflower Mac N Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food makeover with this luscious Cauliflower Mac N Cheese! This low-carb, veggie-packed twist on a classic swaps traditional pasta for tender cauliflower florets, smothered in a velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and a hint of cream cheese for extra richness. Seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper, this dish delivers bold, satisfying flavors without sacrificing a wholesome touch. Topped with golden, crispy panko breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch, this baked delight is ready in just 45 minutes and serves as the ideal side dish or entrée for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. Perfect for those looking for a healthier comfort food option, this baked Cauliflower Mac N Cheese is sure to become a favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 head Cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups Whole milk
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons Cream cheese
- 0.5 teaspoons Garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoons Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 0.5 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and steam or boil for 5–7 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese sauce is smooth and fully combined.
Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a 9x9-inch baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring it is evenly coated.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil until lightly coated, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the cauliflower.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy and cheesy cauliflower mac n cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2019 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 145.9 g | 187% | |
| Saturated Fat | 84.7 g | 424% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 420 mg | 140% | |
| Sodium | 4764 mg | 207% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 90.5 g | 33% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.4 g | 51% | |
| Total Sugars | 32.7 g | ||
| Protein | 103.5 g | 207% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.3 mcg | 27% | |
| Calcium | 2681 mg | 206% | |
| Iron | 6.5 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 2750 mg | 59% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
