Skillet Mac and Cheese Recipe

Skillet Mac and Cheese Recipe

  • 2 cups 1-inch-wide cauliflower florets
  • 1 1/4 cups Light-and-Crisp Whole-Wheat Bread Crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 3 cups cold low-fat (1%) milk
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (5 ounces)
  • 1/4 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (1 ounce)
  • 2 teaspoons mustard powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 6 ounces (1 1/2 cups) wholegrain elbow macaroni, cooked for 3 minutes less than the package directions (about 3 cups cooked)
  • Nonstick cooking spray
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Place the cauliflower into a steamer basket fitted over the pot, cover, and steam until just tender, about 5 minutes. Finely chop the steamed cauliflower.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan, and oil.
  4. In a large saucepan, whisk together the milk and flour until the flour is dissolved. Whisking constantly, bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, mustard powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the chopped cauliflower and macaroni and stir until well coated.
  5. Spray an ovenproof 10-inch high-sided skillet with cooking spray. Pour the mixture into the prepared skillet. Sprinkle with the bread crumb mixture, place on a baking sheet, and bake until the top is browned and the cheese is bubbly, 35 to 40 minutes.