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A delicious serving of creamy Cauliflower mac and cheese (meal prep-friendly) displayed in a glass container ready for a healthy weekly lunch.

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese (Meal Prep-Friendly)

This creamy, low-carb cauliflower mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food solution for busy weeknights. Featuring a luxurious blend of sharp cheddar and nutty gruyere, this dish is designed to hold its texture perfectly for stress-free meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Modern American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large heads of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup gruyere cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the cauliflower onto the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden brown and fork-tender.
  4. While the cauliflower roasts, combine the heavy cream and softened cream cheese in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
  5. Stir in the shredded cheddar and gruyere cheeses, continuing to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is thick and glossy. Stir in the smoked paprika.
  6. Transfer the roasted cauliflower into a greased baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over the top, tossing gently to ensure every floret is coated.
  7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden on top.
  8. Allow the dish to cool completely before portioning into airtight containers for meal prep.

Notes

To ensure the creamiest sauce, always use freshly shredded cheese from a block; pre-shredded bags contain anti-caking agents like potato starch that prevent proper melting. If reheating from the fridge, add a tablespoon of water or milk to the container to loosen the sauce before microwaving for 90 seconds. To freeze, slightly under-roast the cauliflower so it holds its texture better upon reheating.