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Ina Garten Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ina Garten Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
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Ina Garten’s take on cauliflower mac and cheese swaps pasta with tender roasted cauliflower, coated in a silky béchamel sauce loaded with Gruyère and cheddar. It’s baked until bubbly and golden brown, delivering a deeply flavorful, cheesy casserole with a satisfying texture.

 

The roasted cauliflower brings a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the sharp cheeses. This dish is rich yet balanced, indulgent yet wholesome. It’s an excellent low-carb alternative to the traditional version, without compromising on comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing the dish)

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups whole milk, warmed

  • 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese

  • 1 1/2 cups grated sharp white cheddar cheese

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.

  • Roast the cauliflower – Spread cauliflower florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 25 minutes until tender and lightly browned.

  • Prepare the cheese sauce – In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes to form a roux.

  • Add the milk – Gradually whisk in warm milk and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

  • Stir in the cheeses – Remove from heat and mix in Gruyère, cheddar, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth and melted.

  • Combine everything – Add the roasted cauliflower to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.

  • Transfer to a baking dish – Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.

  • Add the topping – Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan, sprinkle over the top, and drizzle with olive oil.

  • Bake until golden – Place in the oven for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.

  • Let it rest – Cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set.

 
 

Find it online: https://inagartencooks.com/ina-garten-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese/