Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This comforting Cauliflower Mac and Cheese offers a lighter twist on the classic dish by swapping pasta for tender cauliflower florets. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, low-carb comfort food.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cauliflower florets
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- ⅓ cup shredded Monterey Jack
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked pepper
- Dash of hot sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Step 2: Chop the cauliflower into small macaroni-sized pieces. Add to the boiling water and boil for 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Drain the water from the pot and add the heavy cream, cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, ground mustard, salt, pepper, and hot sauce to the hot pan with the cauliflower.
- Step 4: Stir well until the cheese has fully melted, about 2-3 minutes. If needed, briefly turn the heat back on to help melt the cheese, but avoid cooking too long to prevent a grainy sauce.
- Step 5: Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of sharp cheddar and mild Monterey Jack for a balanced cheesy flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
- For a spicier kick, increase the dash of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to help the sauce become smooth and creamy.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap cheddar and Monterey Jack for cheeses you prefer, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, keeping in mind the melting qualities for the best sauce texture.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely. Using cauliflower instead of pasta reduces carbs significantly while still delivering that comforting mac and cheese experience.
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Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A healthier twist on traditional macaroni and cheese, this Cauliflower Mac and Cheese replaces pasta with tender cauliflower florets, cooked and smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce made with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese. It’s a comforting low-carb, gluten-free alternative that’s simple to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
- 1 pound cauliflower florets
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked pepper
- Dash of hot sauce
Instructions
- Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil on the stovetop to prepare the cauliflower for cooking.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Chop the cauliflower into small, macaroni-sized pieces. Add them to the boiling water and cook for 5 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- Drain and Add Ingredients: Drain the cooked cauliflower well and return it to the pot while still hot. Add the heavy cream, room temperature cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, ground mustard, salt, cracked pepper, and a dash of hot sauce directly into the pot.
- Combine and Melt Cheese: Stir the mixture thoroughly until the cheese has fully melted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. If necessary, briefly turn the heat back on to gently melt any remaining cheese, taking care not to overcook as this will cause the cheese sauce to become grainy.
- Serve Immediately: Once the cheese sauce is creamy and fully combined with the cauliflower, serve the dish immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Monterey Jack cheese adds a mild, buttery flavor and helps make the cheese sauce extra creamy. You can substitute with mozzarella if needed.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier melting and a smoother sauce.
- Do not overcook the cauliflower during boiling—it should be tender but still hold shape to mimic macaroni texture.
- Be cautious not to overheat the cheese mixture in the pot to avoid grainy sauce texture.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cauliflower Mac and Cheese, Low Carb Mac and Cheese, Gluten Free Mac and Cheese, Healthy Mac and Cheese, Low Carb Cauliflower Recipe
