Cauliflower Bacon Mac and Cheese for Four
Get ready for a mouthwatering treat with this Cauliflower Bacon Mac and Cheese recipe. Serving four, this dish is a great option for a hearty dinner or a enjoyable family meal. Gathering the following ingredients, let's dive into the detailed instructions.
Ingredients
- 16 oz (450 g) Cavatappi pasta
- 2 heads of cauliflower
- 8 oz (225 g) bacon
- 2 tbsp (28 g) flour
- 13.5 oz (390 ml) milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded Italian cheese mix
- 1 bundle of spring onions
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tbsp (14 g) butter
- Salt and pepper, as desired
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 1049
- Fat: 48g
- Carbohydrates: 98g
- Fiber: 39g
- Sugar: 11g
- Protein: 54g
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large pot filled with water and bring it to a boil. While waiting, chop the spring onions into thin slices, separating the white from the green parts.
- Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet, brushed with olive oil and seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven, and bake for 25 minutes or until tender.
- Meanwhile, heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add bacon slices and fry until crispy, then remove and let drain on a paper towel. Keep the rendered bacon fat in the pan.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente, draining and setting aside.
- Remove 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the pan, and add butter, heating until melted. Add the chopped spring onion whites and sauté for 1 minute. Add the flour and stir until golden brown, then slowly add milk and chicken broth while stirring. Cook until thickened.
- Stir in the shredded Italian cheese mix, mixing well until smooth, then season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the cauliflower is tender, crumble the bacon, and then mix the bacon, pasta, and 3/4 of the roasted cauliflower in a large, lightly oiled baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture.
- Top with the remaining cauliflower and bake for 5-7 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned. Sprinkle with the green spring onion tops and serve. Enjoy your meal!
