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Creamy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Golden Topping Made Easy

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A comforting and creamy mac and cheese with a veggie twist using cauliflower florets and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect for cozy dinners and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen; fresh preferred)
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works too)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (can swap for gluten-free flour blend)
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%; dairy-free like oat or almond works)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for toasting breadcrumbs)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes until just tender but not mushy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer cauliflower to a bowl; leave pasta in the water.
  2. Add elbow macaroni to the same pot and cook according to package instructions (about 8-9 minutes) until al dente. Drain pasta and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux.
  4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook sauce for 5-7 minutes until thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Lower heat and stir in shredded cheddar, smoked gouda, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is silky. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add drained pasta and cauliflower into the cheese sauce. Gently fold until evenly coated and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan and olive oil or melted butter. Toss until crumbs are evenly coated.
  8. Transfer cheesy pasta and cauliflower mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle breadcrumb topping over the surface.
  9. Place under a preheated broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching closely until topping is golden brown and crunchy. Remove carefully.
  10. Let dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy.

Notes

Do not overcook cauliflower or pasta to avoid mushiness. Whisk roux and milk slowly to prevent lumps. Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter for richer flavor and even browning. Watch topping closely under broiler to prevent burning. For a smoother sauce, blend part of the cauliflower before mixing. Can be made vegan or gluten-free with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cauliflower recipe, comfort food, cheesy casserole, crispy breadcrumb topping, easy dinner, family recipe

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/creamy-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-golden-topping-made-easy/