Description
A cozy and creamy twist on a classic mac and cheese, this recipe features roasted cauliflower enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, making it a healthier alternative that’s perfect for any night.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into small bite-size pieces
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. onion powder
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 tsp. paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat well.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and just tender.
- Add heavy cream and cream cheese to a large pot over low heat. Whisk gently until melted.
- Gradually add cheddar, gruyere, and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted.
- Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, and any additional spices. Stir until combined and simmer, then remove from heat.
- Whisk the cheesy mixture vigorously until smooth and velvety.
- Fold in roasted cauliflower, ensuring each piece is coated in sauce.
- Serve immediately, optionally sprinkling with paprika for extra spice.
Notes
This dish can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving. For variations, add herbs, bacon, spinach, or jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg