BEST Baked Cauliflower "Mac" and Cheese

BEST Baked Cauliflower "Mac" and Cheese

from lecremedelacrumb.com
45 min
6 servings

Ingredients

  • 6-8 cups cauliflower (chopped into 1-inch pieces (I used 1 1/2 heads of cauliflower))
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (8 ounces, see note)

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

  2. 2

    Fill a microwave-safe bowl with 1 inch of water. Add cauliflower to the bowl and microwave on high for 8 minutes. Drain and set cauliflower aside.

  3. 3

    In a large sauce pan, melt butter over medium heat.

  4. 4

    Stir in flour for about 3 minutes.

  5. 5

    Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until completely incorporated and mixture is thick and smooth.

  6. 6

    Remove from heat, salt, pepper, stir in garlic powder, and shredded cheese until melted and completely incorporated and smooth.

  7. 7

    Stir in cauliflower. Transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish.

  8. 8

    BAKE for 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and begins to brown. Switch to BROIL for 2-4 minutes to brown the top a bit more.

  9. 9

    Dish will be hot! Allow to cool slightly before serving.