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In the world of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. But what if you could elevate this beloved classic with a nutritious twist? Enter the Cheesy Cauli-Mac Delight—a delectable fusion that combines the heartiness of elbow macaroni with the nutritious benefits of cauliflower. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings for cheesy pasta but also incorporates vegetables, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Cheesy Cauli-Mac Delight

A creamy and cheesy pasta dish with cauliflower, perfect for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 7

Ingredients
  

  • 1.0 head cauliflower
  • 8.0 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2.0 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1.0 cup cream cheese
  • 1.0 cup whole milk
  • 3.0 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2.0 cloves garlic
  • 1.0 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1.0 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2.0 tablespoons fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes until tender but still firm. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cauliflower and transfer it to a bowl. In the same water, add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and combined. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth.
  • Reduce the heat to low and add in the shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni and cauliflower florets. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and gently mix until well coated.
  • Preheat your oven to 350. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  • Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy your Cheesy Cauli-Mac Delight!

Notes

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Keyword baked, cauliflower, cheesy, pasta