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Comforting Cauliflower Mac and Cheese with Gruyere

cauliflower mac and cheese - featured image

A healthier twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring roasted cauliflower and a rich Gruyere cheese sauce that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 cups whole milk (or non-dairy milk)
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
  • Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash and dry the cauliflower, then cut it into bite-sized florets. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  3. Spread the florets evenly on a large baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and tender, flipping halfway through.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Lower the heat and stir in the Gruyere and cheddar cheeses. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Place the roasted cauliflower in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower and gently mix until coated evenly.
  8. Set the oven to broil and place the dish under the broiler for 3-5 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
  9. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve.

Notes

[‘Dry the cauliflower thoroughly after washing to avoid soggy florets.’, ‘Freshly shred the cheese for a smoother melt.’, ‘Keep a close eye on the broiler to prevent burning.’, ‘Customize the recipe with added spices, breadcrumbs, or extra veggies.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Cauliflower mac and cheese, Gruyere mac and cheese, low-carb mac and cheese, keto mac and cheese, gluten-free mac and cheese