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Four-Cheese Pasta with Cauliflower

This four-cheese pasta with cauliflower is the ultimate vegetarian comfort food, offering a lighter alternative to the traditional macaroni cheese. By using whole-wheat pasta and combining it with tender steamed cauliflower, this dish packs in extra fibre and nutrients without compromising on that signature creamy texture. The sauce is a sophisticated blend of sharp cheddar, mellow Monterey Jack, salty Parmesan, and a hint of Dijon mustard for depth.

Ideal for a quick midweek meal or a healthy family supper, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare in under twenty minutes. The addition of garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne provides a subtle warmth that complements the nuttiness of the whole-grain pasta perfectly. Serve it as a standalone main course or alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced, satisfying dinner.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Four-Cheese Pasta with Cauliflower

  • 300ml skimmed milk

  • 2 tablespoons single cream cheese

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons whole-wheat flour

  • 1/4 teaspoons salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoons garlic powder

  • Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)

  • 110g shredded cheddar

  • 60g shredded Monterey Jack cheese

  • 30g shredded Parmesan

  • 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

  • 600g cooked whole-wheat spiral pasta

  • 2 cups chopped cauliflower (about 1/2 a medium head), steamed

In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cream cheese, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder and cayenne, if desired. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring, until mixture comes to a slow boil, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove pan from heat; stir in remaining cheeses and mustard until cheese melts. In a bowl, toss pasta with cauliflower; pour cheese mixture over top; stir. Divide pasta evenly among 7 bowls; serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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