Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Name: Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups cauliflower florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup buffalo sauce; 1/4 cup cream cheese

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy Plates

Satisfy your craving for comfort food with a spicy twist! This Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese combines creamy cheese sauce with roasted cauliflower and a kick of buffalo sauce.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-01-05T01:15:29.178Z

This Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a game changer for your weeknight dinners. Not only is it delicious, but it's also a great way to sneak in some veggies!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheese sauce with a spicy buffalo kick
Loaded with roasted cauliflower for added nutrition
Comfort food that satisfies without the guilt

      

A Comforting Classic with a Twist

Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food, cherished by many for its creamy texture and cheesy flavor. By incorporating buffalo sauce and roasted cauliflower, this dish takes on a new personality that is both exciting and satisfying. The heat from the buffalo sauce perfectly balances the richness of the cheese, making it an outstanding choice for those who love a bit of spice in their meals.

Roasting the cauliflower adds a wonderful depth of flavor and texture, transforming it into a delightful addition that enhances the overall dish. Not only does it provide a nutritious boost, but it also absorbs the flavors of the spices, making every bite a delicious experience. This Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a game day gathering, a casual dinner party, or just looking for a cozy meal at home, this Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese fits the bill perfectly. It's easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

This dish also invites creativity; feel free to adjust the level of buffalo sauce to suit your personal taste. You can even experiment with different types of cheese or add extra veggies for a unique twist. Regardless of how you prepare it, this recipe is sure to impress.

Healthier Comfort Food Alternative

Incorporating cauliflower into a classic mac and cheese recipe not only adds flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile. Cauliflower is low in calories and high in vitamins C and K, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Additionally, by using whole ingredients and reducing the amount of cheese and cream, this dish provides a lighter take on the traditional mac and cheese. It's a guilt-free way to indulge in comfort food, ensuring you enjoy every bite while feeling good about your choices.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups cauliflower florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1/4 cup cream cheese

Mix well and enjoy your meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream cheese, and buffalo sauce. Stir until smooth and add shredded cheddar cheese. Cook until melted and creamy.

Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, roasted cauliflower, and cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.

Serve

Serve hot, drizzling extra buffalo sauce on top if desired.

Enjoy your spicy mac and cheese!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the hot cheese sauce. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and ensures a satisfying texture in every bite.

When roasting the cauliflower, keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. You want it tender but still firm enough to hold its shape when mixed with the macaroni. A slight char can add extra flavor, so don’t hesitate to let it roast just a bit longer if you prefer that taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese can be served as a standalone dish or paired with a fresh salad to add a refreshing contrast to the creamy flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider topping the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs before baking it in the oven. This creates a delightful crispy topping that adds another layer of texture and flavor to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the cheese with vegan cheese and the milk with plant-based milk.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work well in this recipe.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to medium spice level due to the buffalo sauce, but you can adjust it to your taste.