Cauliflower Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped white onions
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup half and half (or milk of choice)
• 1/2-1 teaspoon salt (depending on your taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 1/2 cups dry brown rice pasta (or you choice of pasta)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (I used a light version)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. In a small pot add cauliflower and 1 cup water, and steam cauliflower until tender. Drain and add cauliflower to blender. Meanwhile, sautee onions and olive oil on low heat. Once onions become translucent add minced garlic and sautee for one more minute.
2. Add onions and garlic to blender with cauliflower as well as half and half. Puree cauliflower mixture adding water as needed until mixture is smooth, then pour back into a pot on low heat. Mix the two cups of cheese together in a bowl and add half of the cheeses, salt, and pepper and whisk until smooth.
3. Boil pasta as directed and drain once pasta is al dente, about 6-9 minutes. Add pasta to cheese mixture, mixing well, and pour into an 8 x 8 baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cup of cheese on top and bake on 400 degrees until cheese starts to bubble and turn golden brown, about 10-15 minutes. Serve with crispy chopped bacon for an extra kick.