Cauliflower Cheese Pasta
A heartwarming and comforting dish featuring pasta coated in a creamy cheese sauce and roasted cauliflower, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 300 g Pasta (any shape; penne or fusilli work best)
- 1 medium head Cauliflower, cut into florets
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Butter For a rich, silky sauce
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Aromatic base
- 2 cups Milk (whole or dairy-free) Choose whole milk for creaminess
- 2 cups Cheese (sharp cheddar and mozzarella, grated) Creates the perfect flavor and melt
- Salt and Pepper, to taste Essential for flavor enhancement
Toppings
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping) Adds a delightful crunch
- Parmesan cheese (optional) For an extra cheesy finish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the cauliflower florets on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until golden and tender.
Cooking the Pasta and Sauce
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic, allowing it to sizzle.
- Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water if too thick.
Combining and Baking
- Add the cooked pasta and roasted cauliflower to the sauce, stirring gently. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Feel free to customize by adding veggies like spinach or broccoli, proteins like chicken or bacon, and spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper.