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Creamy Hidden-Veggie Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Kids Love Recipe

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A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese recipe that cleverly hides cauliflower for a veggie boost kids and adults will love. Quick, easy, and perfect for family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups (about 200 grams) cauliflower florets, steamed until tender (fresh or frozen)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk (can substitute 2% milk)
  • 2 cups (about 200 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Place 2 cups (about 200 grams) of cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam until very tender, about 8–10 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl with a splash of water for 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess water.
  3. Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add 1/2 cup (120 ml) of the milk and blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until it bubbles but doesn’t brown.
  5. Slowly whisk in the remaining 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) of whole milk, followed by the cauliflower puree. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and add 2 cups (200 grams) shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella. Stir until melted and silky. Mix in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard if using.
  7. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until coated.
  8. Optional: Pour into a greased 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheddar and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Use fresh cauliflower when in season for best flavor; frozen works well too. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. Avoid overheating cheese to prevent graininess. Blending cauliflower creates a smooth sauce; mashing can be used but less creamy.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, cauliflower, hidden veggies, kids recipe, creamy, cheesy, comfort food, family meal, quick dinner

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/creamy-hidden-veggie-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-kids-love-recipe/