Craving the ultimate comfort food without the guilt? Get ready to revolutionize your mac and cheese experience with this clean eating twist that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you! This isn't just another mac and cheese recipe - it's a nutritious, creamy, and absolutely delicious makeover of a classic favorite that proves healthy eating can be incredibly satisfying. Packed with whole grains, hidden vegetables, and all the cheesy goodness you love, this recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole grain elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove cauliflower and set aside. In the same boiling water, cook whole grain elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, drain the cauliflower and transfer to a blender or food processor. Add low-fat milk and blend until smooth and creamy, creating a vegetable-based sauce base.
- Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Return pasta to the pot.
- Pour the cauliflower-milk mixture over the pasta, stirring to combine. Add shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir continuously over low heat until cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth and creamy. If sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cauliflower Secret: The blended cauliflower creates a creamy sauce base that adds nutrients and reduces calories without compromising flavor.
- Cheese Melting Trick: Always add cheese off direct heat and stir continuously to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth, silky texture.
- Pasta Water Magic: Keep some reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency - it helps the sauce cling perfectly to the macaroni.
- Cheese Selection: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor impact with less cheese needed.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with adding roasted vegetables or lean protein like grilled chicken to boost nutrition.
- Storage Tip: This mac and cheese reheats best with a splash of milk to restore creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
