Baked Mac and Cheese with Roasted Cauliflower
Baked Mac and Cheese with Roasted Cauliflower takes the comforting goodness of everyone's favorite mac and cheese up a notch by incorporating roasted cauliflower florets. This recipe not only adds an extra layer of savory flavor but also gives the dish a welcome boost of nutrition. The roasted cauliflower adds a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce and tender macaroni. It's a warm, comforting dish that the whole family will love.
Mac and cheese is a classic American dish that dates back to at least the mid-19th century. It's believed that similar dishes were also popular in Europe, with variations appearing in England and Italy. The first known written recipe for macaroni and cheese in the US appeared in the 1824 cookbook "The Virginia Housewife" by Mary Randolph. This recipe called for boiling the macaroni, draining it, and tossing it with grated cheese and butter. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a roux-based sauce, and various ingredients were added for flavor, including milk, cream, spices, and sometimes meat or vegetables. Today, baked mac and cheese is a popular dish served in homes and restaurants across the country, and countless variations exist, each with its unique twist on the classic. This recipe for Baked Mac and Cheese with Roasted Cauliflower is a delicious variation on the classic dish that adds an extra layer of flavor and nutrition with roasted cauliflower florets.
Baked Mac and Cheese with Roasted Cauliflower Baked Mac and Cheese with Roasted Cauliflower Baked Mac and Cheese with Roasted Cauliflower Baked Mac and Cheese with Roasted Cauliflower
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • Cauliflower
  • Macaroni
  • Unsalted butter
  • All-purpose flour
  • Milk
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Mustard
  • Salt and pepper
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Fold in roasted cauliflower and cooked macaroni.
  7. Pour mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Why It Works
  • The roasted cauliflower adds a sweet and nutty flavor to the dish, balancing out the richness of the cheese sauce.
  • Roasting the cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and caramelizes the edges, creating a flavorful and slightly crunchy texture.
  • Using a roux to thicken the cheese sauce ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.
  • Adding mustard to the cheese sauce adds a bit of tang and complexity to the dish.
  • Baking the mac and cheese allows the flavors to meld together and creates a bubbly, golden-brown crust.