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Best Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe

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3.9 from 1 review

A delicious and comforting low-carb twist on classic mac and cheese featuring roasted cauliflower smothered in a rich, creamy blend of cheddar, gruyere, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese.

Ingredients

Cauliflower

  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into small bite-size pieces (about the size of gnocchi) – 1 large head or 2 small heads

Seasonings and Oil

  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp. onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp. paprika (optional)

Cheese Sauce

  • 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or a combination of milk and cream to total 1 1/2 cups)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Roast Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper, spread the cauliflower pieces. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and some pieces begin to brown.
  2. Prepare Cheese Sauce: While the cauliflower roasts, place a large pot on low heat. Add the heavy cream and cream cheese to the pot. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese fully melts and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Melt the Remaining Cheeses and Season: Add the shredded cheddar, gruyere, and Monterey Jack cheeses to the pot. Stir consistently until all the cheeses melt completely and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder. Once the sauce reaches a gentle simmer, immediately remove from heat and whisk vigorously to perfect the texture.
  4. Combine Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce: Add the roasted cauliflower into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat all cauliflower pieces with the creamy cheese.
  5. Serve: Transfer to serving bowls or plates immediately. Optionally, sprinkle paprika on top for extra flavor and a mild spice finish. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy cauliflower mac and cheese!

Notes

  • Use foil or parchment to prevent sticking during roasting and for easy cleanup.
  • You can substitute milk for cream or use a combination, but heavy cream creates a richer sauce.
  • Ensure the heat is low when melting the cheeses to prevent the sauce from separating.
  • For a thicker sauce, reduce the cream slightly before adding cheese.
  • To make this recipe vegetarian, ensure the cheeses used are free from animal rennet.
  • This dish is naturally gluten free and low carb, making it suitable for gluten-free and diabetic diets.