Are you ready to transform your dinner routine with a dish that's both delicious and deceptively healthy? Say hello to the Hidden Cauliflower Mac n Cheese! This creamy, cheesy comfort food is not just a childhood favorite; it also sneaks in nutritious cauliflower, making it the perfect meal for picky eaters and health-conscious foodies alike. With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you can indulge in a bowl of cheesy goodness that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to make a classic dish that’s packed with hidden veggies!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni, 1 cup cauliflower florets, 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded), 1/2 cup milk, 2 tbsp butter, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cauliflower. You can either steam the florets in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes or microwave them with a splash of water in a covered bowl for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Once the cauliflower is tender, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add the milk, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. This will be your hidden cauliflower sauce.
- When the macaroni is done, drain it and return it to the pot. Add the butter to the hot macaroni, stirring until melted.
- Pour the cauliflower sauce over the macaroni and stir to combine. Make sure all the pasta is evenly coated.
- Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the macaroni and cauliflower mixture. Stir well until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the dish.
- Season the mac and cheese with additional salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash more of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish or individual bowls. For an added touch, you can sprinkle extra cheese on top and place it under the broiler for a couple of minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm and enjoy your Hidden Cauliflower Mac n Cheese, a delicious and sneaky way to include veggies in your meal!
Tips
- Cook the Cauliflower Perfectly: For the best texture, steam your cauliflower until it's tender but not mushy. This will help it blend smoothly into a creamy sauce without losing its flavor.
- Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor. If you want to experiment, try mixing in some mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist!
- Adjust Consistency: If your cauliflower sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Broil for Extra Flavor: For a golden, bubbly top, sprinkle extra cheese on your mac and cheese and pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Simply store the assembled mac and cheese in the fridge and reheat when you're ready to serve.
- Add Your Favorite Veggies: Feel free to customize your Hidden Cauliflower Mac n Cheese by adding other veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition and flavor.Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
