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Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4 from 8 reviews

This Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a comforting and healthier twist on the classic mac and cheese. Using tender cauliflower florets coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar and arrowroot powder for thickening, this dish is baked to bubbly perfection with a lightly browned top. It’s a delicious vegetarian casserole that’s sure to please both kids and adults looking to enjoy an indulgent yet nutrient-rich meal.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 large head or 2 medium heads cauliflower, chopped into florets (about 8 cups)
  • ½ large yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)

Other Ingredients

  • ½ Tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 3 Tablespoons arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper (plus more to taste)
  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
  2. Cook Cauliflower: Chop the cauliflower into florets and place them in a large pot. Cover with enough water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to medium-low and simmer until the cauliflower is tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Sauté Onion: While the cauliflower cooks, heat ½ tablespoon of olive or avocado oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Make Sauce Base: Stir in 3 tablespoons arrowroot powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper with the onions. Cook this mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to combine and cook out the starch.
  5. Add Milk: Slowly pour in 2 cups of unsweetened almond milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil while whisking to achieve a smooth and thickened sauce.
  6. Add Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, whisking continuously until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
  7. Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese sauce and stir gently to ensure all pieces are well coated with the creamy mixture.
  8. Transfer and Bake: Pour the cauliflower and cheese mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the top starts to brown.
  9. Broil for Browning: For an extra golden and crispy top, switch the oven to broil and cook for 3-4 minutes more, watching closely to prevent burning.
  10. Serve: Remove the baked cauliflower mac and cheese from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • You can substitute cornstarch for arrowroot powder if preferred.
  • For a richer flavor, use full-fat cheddar cheese.
  • Make sure to drain the cauliflower well to prevent a watery casserole.
  • Broil carefully as the top can burn quickly during the final step.
  • This dish can be made dairy-free and vegan by using vegan cheese and plant-based milk.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/baked-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-recipe/