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Stovetop Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

Creamy Stovetop Cauliflower Mac & Cheese in 15 Minutes

This Stovetop Cauliflower Mac & Cheese is a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to classic mac and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Quick Meals
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cauliflower Base
  • 1 head Cauliflower Cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Milk Use whole milk for richer flavor
  • 1/2 cup Half and Half Replace with unsweetened almond milk for lighter option
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for stronger flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Shallots sautéed can provide extra texture
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Use smoked paprika for enhanced flavor
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese Mascarpone can be used for a different flavor
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Gruyere or Gouda can be swapped for gourmet twist

Equipment

  • Microwave
  • 5-quart pot
  • 9x13 dish

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by placing your cut cauliflower pieces into a 9x13 dish. Add ½ cup of water and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 6 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
  2. In a 5-quart pot, pour in 1 cup of whole milk and ½ cup of half and half, then set over medium-high heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika as the mixture heats.
  3. Once the sauce is warmed through, add 4 ounces of cream cheese, whisking until completely dissolved, followed by 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese.
  4. Carefully drain any excess water from the steamed cauliflower and add it into the cheese sauce, gently tossing to coat.
  5. Transfer the creamy Stovetop Cauliflower Mac & Cheese to plates or bowls for serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra paprika.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 75mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This dish remains creamy when properly sealed. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

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