One-Pot Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

Holiday season is in full effect and while we might not be attending large holiday parties this year – we still can indulge in delicious side dishes with our immediate family.

This tasty one-pot cauliflower mac and cheese is a delightful healthyish side dish to serve at your next family gathering. The perfect recipe to satisfy all of your cheesy cravings! I chose to add a cheddar/mozzarella blend and Parmesan to this dish, but feel free to swap these out for your favorite flavors.

BUT WAIT, IT’S NOT REALLY “MAC” AND CHEESE!

Yep, you’re right! While this recipe isn’t filled with carb-heavy pasta, you’ll still get the same yummy ooey-gooey goodness you’ve come to love and adore with traditional mac and cheese. The cauliflower brings a lovely nutty flavor and when cooked properly has a pleasant texture that mimics al dente pasta. No, it’s not pasta, but if you’re looking for a lower carb mac and cheese alternative this recipe is for you! The best part is, you’ll get a whole serving of veggies in one scrumptious scoop.

ADD-IN IDEAS OR VARIATIONS:

*Enjoy this easy one pot recipe as a side dish alongside a special meal or enhance your recipe with add-ins for a tasty main dish.

  • Spruce up with your favorite herbs & spices
  • Dijon mustard
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Bell peppers
  • Zucchini
  • Grape/Cherry tomatoes
  • Steamed or roasted broccoli
  • Spinach
  • Diced lean ham
  • Turkey bacon
  • Lean ground turkey
  • Panko or breadcrumbs
  • The possibilities are endless!

HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT

  • Freezing your leftovers is not recommended for this recipe, as it will not hold up well.
  • To store, you may cover and place in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it goes beyond this point, it loses flavor and consistency.
  • To reheat, place in the microwave at 50% power for best results.

One-Pot Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

Holiday season is in full effect and while we might not be attending large holiday parties this year – we still can indulge in delicious side dishes with our immediate family.
4.86 from 7 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 156 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cauliflower florets (approximately depends on the size of your cauliflower head)
  • Salt & Pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 oz cream cheese softened
  • 3/4 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
  • 2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Parsley

Instructions
 

  • Cut cauliflower into small florets.
  • In a large pot, boil 6 cups of salted water. Add cauliflower and boil for about 5-8 minutes or until tender. Drain.
  • Return cauliflower to the pot over low heat.
  • Add a pinch of salt and pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and stir to coat. Stir in cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan until melted and combined.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 156kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 13gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 32mgSodium: 398mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
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