Creamy Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

7 min read

Who doesn't enjoy a bowl of mac & cheese that is creamy and cheesy? But what if there was a more wholesome, nutrient-dense way to enjoy it? This Cauliflower Mac & Cheese is a great gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetable-rich substitute for the classic heavy cheese sauce since it uses a light yet creamy cauliflower-based sauce instead. It's far more nourishing but just as cosy!

Now let's start making this delectable, guilt-free mac & cheese!

Cauliflower Mac & Cheese Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cauliflower florets

• 1 ½ cups gluten-free elbow pasta (or any pasta of choice)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free cheese)

• ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)

• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional for extra cheesiness)

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

• ¼ cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Steam the Cauliflower: In a pot of boiling water, cook the cauliflower florets until soft (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.

3. Make the Sauce: Blend the steamed cauliflower with almond milk, butter, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. If using nutritional yeast, add it to the mix for a cheesier flavor.

4. Combine: Pour the cauliflower sauce over the cooked pasta and mix well. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted.

5. Optional Topping: If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle gluten-free breadcrumbs over the mac & cheese and broil for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

Health Benefits of Cauliflower Mac & Cheese:

A Healthier and Lighter Option:

Compared to the classic mac & cheese, this version is significantly healthier because it has more fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants from cauliflower.

Gluten-Free & Gut-Friendly:

This dish is ideal if you're trying to avoid gluten. The nutrient-dense cauliflower and gluten-free pasta promote intestinal health and digestion.

A Dairy-Free Choice for Improved Digestibility:

This recipe is perfect for people with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivity because it uses almond milk and dairy-free cheese.

Rich in Nutrient Content:

Rich in fibre, vitamin C, and vitamin K, cauliflower supports digestion, the immune system, and general health.

How to Serve Cauliflower Mac & Cheese?

• Enjoy it as a main dish with a side of roasted veggies.

• Pair it with a protein source like grilled tofu or chickpeas for a balanced meal.

• Serve it as a side dish alongside a hearty soup or salad.

This creamy, cheesy, and incredibly delicious cauliflower mac and cheese is the perfect healthy comfort food! It's also full of gluten-free pasta, gut-friendly ingredients, and a creamy cauliflower sauce, which makes it the ideal guilt-free treat.

FAQs 

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Just use dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter.

Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: What can I use instead of cauliflower?
A: You can try butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a different twist.