The Best Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that swaps traditional pasta for tender roasted cauliflower. It’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of mac and cheese with a healthy twist.

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into small bite-size pieces (about the size of gnocchi) (1 large head or 2 small heads)
• 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 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or milk, or a combination to total 1 1/2 cups)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup gruyere cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 tsp. paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread the cauliflower pieces on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast for 15-20 minutes, until the cauliflower is softened and some pieces turn golden brown.
2. Step 2: While the cauliflower roasts, warm the heavy cream and cream cheese in a large pot over low heat. Whisk until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the shredded cheddar, gruyere, and Monterey Jack cheeses to the pot. Stir continuously until all the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce. Add garlic powder and onion powder, stirring to combine. When the sauce is smooth and begins to simmer, remove it from heat and whisk vigorously.
4. Step 4: Fold the roasted cauliflower into the cheese sauce, coating each piece well. Serve immediately, garnished with paprika if you like a little extra color and warmth.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute some or all of the heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based milk alternative.
• Add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• Try using smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to add a spicy kick.
• For a crunchier top, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then bake until golden.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with other melting cheeses you enjoy, like mozzarella or fontina. Just choose cheeses that melt smoothly for the best texture.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Absolutely. Using cauliflower instead of pasta lowers the carbs significantly, making this dish a great option for low-carb or keto-friendly meals.

The Best Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 126 reviews

This creamy, cheesy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a low-carb, comforting dish featuring roasted cauliflower florets smothered in a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, Gruyere, and Monterey Jack. Perfect as a healthier alternative to traditional mac and cheese, it combines roasting and stovetop techniques to create a smooth, velvety sauce that coats every bite.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into small bite size pieces (1 large head OR 2 small heads)
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp. salt

Cheese Sauce

• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp. onion powder
• 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or a mix of milk and cream totaling 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
• 1/4 tsp. paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Roast Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place the cut cauliflower pieces on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and some pieces have browned slightly.
2. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a large pot over low heat, combine the heavy cream and cream cheese. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Then, add the shredded cheddar, Gruyere, and Monterey Jack cheeses. Keep stirring until all cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and if desired, paprika. When the sauce just begins to simmer, remove the pot from heat and whisk vigorously to achieve a creamy texture.
3. Combine and Serve: Add the roasted cauliflower to the cheese sauce and mix well so every piece is coated thoroughly. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional paprika if you like a little extra spice. Enjoy your deliciously creamy, low-carb cauliflower mac and cheese!

Notes

• For a lighter version, substitute some or all of the heavy cream with milk.
• You can swap the cheeses for alternatives such as mozzarella or fontina, but the flavor profile will differ.
• Roasting the cauliflower enhances its natural sweetness and adds a nice texture contrast.
• This dish is best served fresh but can be refrigerated and gently reheated on the stovetop.
• Adding paprika on top is optional but adds a subtle smoky flavor and appealing color.

Keywords: cauliflower mac and cheese, low carb mac and cheese, roasted cauliflower, creamy cheese sauce, healthy comfort food