Mac and Cheesy White Cheddar Sauce with Cauliflower Puree – They’ll Never Know
Introducing a kid-friendly twist to the classic macaroni and cheese, our Homemade Mac and Cheesy White Cheddar Sauce with Cauliflower Puree is a delightful and nutritious treat for young taste buds. This creamy and cheesy dish combines the goodness of macaroni with the wholesome benefits of cauliflower puree, making it a parent-approved favorite.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
- 1 medium cauliflower head, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Steamed broccoli florets or peas for added veggies
Instructions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta) according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Steam the cauliflower florets until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously until a smooth roux forms. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Stir in the steamed cauliflower florets and reduce the heat to low. Let the cauliflower simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to infuse its flavors.
- Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully blend the mixture until it becomes a smooth puree. Be cautious while blending hot liquids to avoid splattering.
- Return the cauliflower puree sauce to the saucepan over low heat.
- Gradually add the shredded white cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and velvety.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheesy white cheddar sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- For an extra nutritional boost, add some steamed broccoli florets or peas to the mac and cheese.
Nutritious and Delicious: Our Homemade Mac and Cheesy White Cheddar Sauce with Cauliflower Puree for Kids offers a sneaky way to incorporate veggies into their meal without compromising on taste. The cauliflower puree blends seamlessly with the cheesy goodness, making it a wholesome and delicious dish.
Health Benefits: Cauliflower is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, while the white cheddar cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein. This mac and cheese dish becomes a nutritious option that kids will love.
Serve with a Smile: Present this Homemade Mac and Cheesy White Cheddar Sauce with Cauliflower Puree for Kids with a smile, and watch young chefs enjoy a satisfying and nourishing meal. It’s a win-win for parents and kids alike!