Masterchef Cauliflower Mac N Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food makeover with Masterchef Cauliflower Mac N Cheese, a rich and creamy fusion of classic mac and cheese with a wholesome twist. Featuring tender florets of steamed cauliflower and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni tossed in a luscious cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce, this dish is elevated with subtle hints of garlic and mustard powder for added depth. Topped with a golden, crispy layer of panko breadcrumbs infused with smoky paprika, this baked casserole strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Ready in under an hour, it’s an irresistible family dinner idea that proves vegetables can truly steal the show.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 oz Elbow macaroni
- 1 medium head Cauliflower
- 3 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Mustard powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.5 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 0.5 tsp Paprika
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Trim and cut the cauliflower into small florets. Steam or boil the cauliflower until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni and steamed cauliflower to the cheese sauce. Gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and paprika. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and serve warm. Enjoy your Masterchef Cauliflower Mac N Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3782 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 206.5 g | 265% | |
| Saturated Fat | 120.9 g | 604% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 567 mg | 189% | |
| Sodium | 8473 mg | 368% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 279.6 g | 102% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.5 g | 73% | |
| Total Sugars | 43.0 g | ||
| Protein | 211.7 g | 423% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.6 mcg | 33% | |
| Calcium | 4979 mg | 383% | |
| Iron | 14.9 mg | 83% | |
| Potassium | 2756 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.
