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Creamy Thermos Mac and Cheese Recipe with Hidden Cauliflower Easy and Healthy

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A quick and easy creamy mac and cheese with hidden cauliflower that adds nutrition and a velvety texture, perfect for lunches on the go or cozy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 225 grams)
  • 1 cup finely chopped or riced cauliflower (about 100 grams), steamed until just tender
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 170 grams)
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 grams), softened
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (15 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: paprika or crispy breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, finely chop or rice about 1 cup (100 grams) of cauliflower florets. Steam over boiling water for 5-7 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain well to remove excess moisture.
  3. Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If needed, add a splash of milk to help it blend into a creamy consistency. Set aside.
  4. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter over medium heat. Once bubbly, whisk in 2 tablespoons (15 grams) all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  5. Gradually whisk in 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, followed by the cauliflower puree. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low and add 1½ cups (170 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in ½ teaspoon mustard powder, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
  8. Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into a preheated thermos to keep warm for hours. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of paprika or some toasted breadcrumbs on top before sealing.

Notes

Preheat your thermos by filling it with boiling water for 5 minutes before adding the mac and cheese to keep it warm longer. Stir cheese sauce off heat to prevent graininess. Steam cauliflower instead of boiling to avoid watery sauce. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free pasta. Variations include swapping cheddar for mozzarella and gouda, or using butternut squash or sweet potatoes instead of cauliflower.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, thermos meals, hidden cauliflower, healthy mac and cheese, easy dinner, kid-friendly, quick meals

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/creamy-thermos-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-hidden-cauliflower-easy-and-healthy/