Cauliflower Mac & Cheese with Peas and Ham
Servings
4
to 6 servingsPrep time
20
minutesCooking time
25
minutesTotal time
45
minutesWho doesn’t love mac & cheese? This version is creamy, cheesy, and made with… cauliflower! It also includes cooked ham and peas (for a little freshness). I’m pretty sure this recipe will become a family favorite (my daughter loves it). Enjoy!
Ingredients
4 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 small cauliflower)
2 shallots, sliced
3-4 garlic cloves, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups milk
2 tsp Dijon mustard
¾ tsp salt
410g small shells (conchiglie) or macaroni
3 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
1 cup frozen green peas
Topping (optional): breadcrumb crumble – see notes*
Instructions
- In a large skillet or low pot over medium heat, sauté 2 sliced shallots and 3-4 sliced garlic cloves in 2 tbsp olive oil for 2 minutes. Add the 4 cups cauliflower florets and 1 cup of milk.
- Stir, then cover and cook on low heat for about 7-10 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a blender. Add the remaining 1 cup of milk, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, and 3/4 tsp salt. Pulse until smooth.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions, but 1 minute less. The pasta will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Transfer the creamy cauliflower sauce back into the same skillet/pot used to cook the cauliflower.
- Cook over medium-low heat and add about half of the cheese (a total of 3 cups sharp cheddar and ¾ cup mozzarella). Stir until fully melted, then add the remaining cheese. Stir well.
- Add 1 1/2 cups diced ham and 1 cup frozen peas.
- Transfer the cooked pasta directly into the sauce and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately in bowls. Top with the breadcrumb crumble (optional).
Notes
- In a pan over medium-low heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs and ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs. Toast for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
