Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most irresistible mac and cheese recipe that'll make both kids and adults beg for seconds! This Neilson Public Cauli Cheese Macaroni isn't just another pasta dish – it's a creamy, cheesy adventure that sneaks in healthy cauliflower without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. Imagine a golden, bubbling casserole that combines the classic comfort of mac and cheese with a nutritious twist that'll have everyone asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups macaroni pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the cauliflower florets and blanch for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni and blanched cauliflower. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, gently stirring to ensure even coating.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cauliflower Cooking Hack: Make sure to blanch the cauliflower just until it's slightly tender. Overcooking will make it mushy and lose its delightful texture.
- Cheese Sauce Perfection: Whisk your roux continuously to prevent lumps and create a silky-smooth sauce. Use room temperature milk for easier blending.
- Cheese Selection: While cheddar is classic, try mixing in some gruyère or parmesan for extra depth of flavor.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Crispy Top Trick: For an extra-golden, crispy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or additional cheese before the final bake.
- Dietary Modifications: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and pasta. For a lower-carb option, replace macaroni with cauliflower rice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
