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Creamy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe with Cauliflower Sauce Easy and Healthy

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A healthier twist on classic mac and cheese using a creamy cauliflower sauce to sneak in veggies without compromising on flavor or texture. Quick, easy, and family-friendly comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (about 225 g) macaroni pasta, elbow or any small pasta shape
  • 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups chopped), steamed until tender
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) milk, whole milk preferred
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 oz or 225 g)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 cup toasted breadcrumbs (try panko for extra crispiness)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Chop 1 medium head of cauliflower into florets. Steam in a basket over boiling water for 8-10 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain thoroughly to prevent watery sauce.
  3. In a blender or food processor, combine the steamed cauliflower with 1 cup (240 ml) of milk. Blend until very smooth to create the creamy veggie base.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbling and slightly golden, avoiding browning.
  5. Slowly whisk in the cauliflower-milk puree along with the remaining 1 cup (240 ml) milk. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  6. Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly.
  8. Optional: Transfer to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish, sprinkle 1/2 cup toasted breadcrumbs over the top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Drain cauliflower thoroughly after steaming to avoid watery sauce. Whisk constantly when adding cauliflower puree to roux to prevent lumps. For richer flavor, add smoked paprika or hot sauce. Toast breadcrumbs in butter before baking for extra crunch. Multitask by steaming cauliflower while pasta cooks to save time. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and flour.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, cauliflower sauce, hidden veggies, comfort food, healthy mac and cheese, creamy pasta, family meal, quick dinner

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/creamy-hidden-veggie-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-cauliflower-sauce-easy-and-healthy/