The Best Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe
A creamy and comforting cauliflower mac and cheese recipe where roasted cauliflower replaces traditional pasta, blended with a luscious mix of melted cheeses and creamy sauce for a low-carb twist on the classic comfort dish.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into small bite size pieces (1 large head OR 2 small heads)
Seasoning & 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 & Dairy
- 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or milk, or a combination to equal 1 1/2 cups total)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes or pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Roast the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Arrange the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt and black pepper over the pieces, ensuring all are evenly coated. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cauliflower softens and some edges turn slightly browned.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: While cauliflower roasts, heat a large pot over low heat. Add the heavy cream and cream cheese cubes, whisking constantly until the cream cheese melts completely and incorporates into the cream. Gradually add shredded cheddar, gruyere, and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, and optionally paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat and whisk vigorously to ensure a creamy texture.
- Combine and Serve: Add the roasted cauliflower into the cheese sauce pot, stirring thoroughly to coat every piece with the cheesy mixture. Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with extra paprika for a touch of color and spice.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with milk or a combination of both, but cream produces a richer sauce.
- Roasting cauliflower adds depth and slight caramelization to enhance flavor.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheeses and milk instead of cream.
- Serve this dish immediately for the best creamy texture, as it thickens upon standing.
- To make it spicier, add extra paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Keywords: Cauliflower mac and cheese, low carb mac and cheese, roasted cauliflower, cheesy cauliflower bake, healthy comfort food
