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Homemade Roasted Cauliflower Mac And Cheese recipe photo

Roasted Cauliflower Mac And Cheese

This Roasted Cauliflower Mac And Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on classic mac and cheese with tender roasted cauliflower and a luscious cheesy sauce.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy, Pasta, Vegetarian
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces macaroni pasta
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2% preferred for creaminess
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Roasted Cauliflower Mac And Cheese Made Stepwise

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender.
  • While the cauliflower roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 7-8 minutes). Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth and warm. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the cooked macaroni and roasted cauliflower to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the cheesy goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
  • For a bubbly, golden top, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Alternatively, you can skip baking and serve straight from the stove for a quicker meal.
  • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, comforting Roasted Cauliflower Mac And Cheese.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or whisk
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Oven-Safe Baking Dish

Notes

  • Roast cauliflower well to bring out sweetness and avoid sogginess.
  • Use whole or 2% milk for the creamiest cheese sauce.
  • Optional baking step adds a golden crust but can be skipped for faster serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
  • Customize by adding bacon bits, swapping cheeses, or mixing in other veggies like broccoli.