It’s a classic dish that makes you think of happy times from your youth. But what if we told you there was a healthy way to enjoy this favorite dish? Cauliflower Mac and Cheese with Chicken Sausage is here. This delicious mix of flavors blends the creaminess of mac and cheese with the health benefits of cauliflower and the savory taste of chicken sausage. In this piece, we’ll show you step-by-step how to make this delicious dish, which is sure to become a new favorite in your collection of recipes.
What You Need to Know
Before we start making our Cauliflower Mac and Cheese with Chicken Sausage, let’s make sure we have everything we need
- 1 medium-sized head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 8 ounces of elbow macaroni or another type of pasta of your choice
- 1 spoonful of olive oil
- 1 cup of diced chicken sausage, in any taste you like.
- 2 tablespoons of butter without salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk, preferably whole or 2%.
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. You can add other cheeses for more taste if you want.
- 1/2 milligram of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of powdered onion
- To taste, salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley (to decorate, if you want)
How to Cook the Pasta and Cauliflower
Step 1- Get a big pot of water boiling. Add a pinch of salt, then the pieces of cauliflower. They should be cooked for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft. With a slotted spoon, take the cauliflower out of the pot and set it away.
Step 2- Cook elbow macaroni or your choice of pasta in the same pot of boiling water, following the directions on the box. Once the pasta is done, drain it and set it away.
How to Make Chicken Sausage
Step 1- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a pan. Add the chicken sausage that has been cut into small pieces and cook it until it turns golden brown and a little crispy. When the sausage is done, take it out of the pan and set it away.
How to Make the Cheese Sauce
Step 1- Melt the unsalted butter in a separate big saucepan over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes to make a smooth paste.
Step 2- Slowly pour in the milk while stirring all the time to keep lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the sauce gets thicker and smoother.
Step 3- Turn down the heat and add the cheddar cheese shreds. Stir until all of the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4- Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Depending on how you like your food to taste, change the spices.
Putting the Ingredients Together
Step 1- Turn your oven on and heat it to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2- Mix the cooked pasta, cauliflower, and chicken sausage that has been cooked in a big bowl.
Step 3- Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly covered.
Step 4- Pour the mix into a baking dish that has been greased.
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese in the Oven
Step 1- Put the baking dish in an oven that has been warmed and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 2- When the dish is done, take it out of the oven and set it aside for a few minutes to cool.
Step 3- If you want, garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve, and have fun!
Your Cauliflower Mac and Cheese with Chicken Sausage will make your mouth water. Serve it as a filling main dish or as a side dish to go with your favorite meal. See how much your family and friends enjoy every bite.
Conclusion
With this dish for Cauliflower Mac and Cheese, you can enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist. Cauliflower, chicken sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce come together to make a meal that is both filling and healthy. So, why not give it a try and give your next mac and cheese craving a healthy boost?
FAQs
Can I make this dish with gluten-free pasta?
Yes, without a doubt! For a gluten-free version of this dish, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of standard pasta.
Can I make this meal in advance?
The Cauliflower Mac and Cheese with Chicken Sausage can be made ahead of time and put in the fridge. When you are ready to eat it, put it back in the oven until it is warm.
Can I make the sauce with different kinds of cheese?
Yes, you can try different cheeses together to make new tastes. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan are all great cheeses that can be added or used instead.
Can I replace the chicken sausage with turkey sausage?
Turkey sausage works just as well as chicken sausage and can be a tasty option.
Can I freeze what is left?
Yes, you can put the extras in a container with a lid and freeze them. Add a splash of milk when you reheat it to keep the creamy taste.