7 min read
Creamy Cauliflower Mac & Cheese
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:
- Cook the Pasta:
Boil the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Steam the Cauliflower: In a pot of boiling water, cook the cauliflower florets until soft (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly. - 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. - Combine:
Pour the cauliflower sauce over the cooked pasta and mix well. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted. - 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. - 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
Yes! Just use dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter.
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You can try butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a different twist.
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