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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes rival the richness of mac and cheese. It's a classic that evokes nostalgia and warmth, often bringing back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. However, as more people seek healthier eating habits without sacrificing flavor, this beloved dish has seen a delicious transformation. Enter Creamy Cauliflower Mac & Cheese—a delightful twist that incorporates nutrient-dense cauliflower while maintaining the creamy, cheesy goodness we all cherish. This innovative recipe not only caters to those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake but also offers a fantastic alternative for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.

Creamy Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

Discover the delicious twist on a classic favorite with Creamy Cauliflower Mac & Cheese. This innovative recipe replaces traditional pasta with nutrient-rich cauliflower, perfect for those seeking healthier meal options without sacrificing flavor. Packed with vitamins and fiber, this dish offers a rich, creamy texture that appeals to everyone, including those on gluten-free or dairy-free diets. Learn how to craft the ultimate comfort food right at home, enhancing your culinary repertoire with this wholesome alternative. Enjoy a comforting meal that's both satisfying and nutritious!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

8 ounces elbow macaroni (or gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour as needed)

2 cups whole milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free alternative)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Cauliflower and Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, gently add the cauliflower florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain both the pasta and cauliflower together in a colander and set them aside.

    Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden, stirring continuously. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to ensure there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.

      Season and Thicken: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Keep whisking the sauce until it thickens, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

        Incorporate the Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until both cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.

          Combine Everything: Carefully pour the drained macaroni and cauliflower into the cheese sauce. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together until all the pasta and cauliflower florets are well-coated in the creamy cheese sauce.

            Serve Hot: Transfer the creamy mac and cheese to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch, and enjoy this delicious dish immediately!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4