Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

This Cauliflower Mac & Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and so satisfying — you won’t even miss the pasta! It’s the perfect lighter comfort food for busy weeknights, combining roasted cauliflower with a silky, flavorful cheese sauce that comes together fast. Whether you’re cutting carbs or just looking for an easy, feel-good side dish, this one’s a winner every time.

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Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

Why You'll Love This Cauliflower Mac & Cheese Recipe

• Quick and simple: Just 10 minutes of prep and the oven does the rest

• Comfort food made lighter: All the cheesy flavor of mac and cheese, without the heavy pasta

• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love this rich, creamy dish

• Perfect make-ahead option: Can be assembled ahead and baked later

• Minimal cleanup: Only one pot and one pan needed!

• Balanced texture: Roasted cauliflower gives a slightly nutty bite under the creamy sauce

• Customizable flavors: Easily adjust the cheeses or seasonings to your liking

• Reheats beautifully: Stays creamy and delicious for easy leftovers.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Don’t over-roast the cauliflower: You want it tender but not mushy for the best texture

• Whisk slowly when melting cheese: Prevents graininess and keeps the sauce silky smooth

• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect melting

• Let it rest before serving: Gives the sauce time to thicken slightly for the perfect consistency

• Bake uncovered: This allows the top to brown and develop a slight crisp edge

Cauliflower Mac & Cheese Recipe

Prep: 10 mins. | Cook: 40 mins. | Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut

• 2 T. olive oil

• 1/4 tsp. pepper

• 1/4 tsp. nutmeg

• 1/2 tsp. salt

• 1 tsp. garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp. onion powder

• 1 1/2 c. heavy whipping cream

• 4 oz. cream cheese

• 1 c. shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 c. Gruyere cheese

• 1/2 c. shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Let's Get Started!

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Place cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle with salt and pepper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.

2. In a large pot, over a low heat, combine heavy cream and the cream cheese, whisk until melted. Stir in the remaining cheeses and continue to whisk until melted. Add in the spices and mix until smooth and simmering. then remove from the heat and continue whisking. Fold in the cauliflower until well coated.

3. Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a cast iron skillet or baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Place it in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and let it sit for 10 minutes then serve.