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–+ servings
Skinny Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Skinny Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Yield: 6 servings
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Less fat AND less calories. Except taste and flavor is not compromised AT ALL! So cheesy, comforting and irresistible!
5 stars (1 rating)

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cavatappi pasta
  • 2 cups cauliflower florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup half and half, or more, as needed
  • 2 ounces cream cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions. Within the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add cauliflower; drain well.
  • Melt butter in a 9-inch oven-proof skillet over medium high heat. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in half and half, and cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in cream cheese, Dijon and garlic powder until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
  • Stir in 1 cup cheese until melted, about 1-2 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more half and half as needed; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Stir in pasta and cauliflower; gently toss to combine. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
  • Place into oven and bake until bubbly, about 12-15 minutes.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with chives, if desired.