Delicious & Healthy 21 Day Fix Cauliflower Cheeseburger “Mac” (Oven & Instant Pot)
Get ready to revolutionize your meal plan with this incredible 21 Day Fix Cauliflower Cheeseburger “Mac”! Whether you prefer the classic bake of the oven or the speed of your Instant Pot, this recipe is a game-changer. It’s truly one of my absolute favorite “no yellow” FIX-approved meals, delivering all the cheesy, savory goodness you crave without the guilt. This post contains affiliate links for products I am obsessed with, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through them.
Confession time: I’ve really wrestled with what to call this dish. To me, it perfectly bridges the gap between a classic Mac and Cheese and those nostalgic, hearty Hamburger Helper meals. The twist? There’s no actual “macaroni” here, and it’s far healthier than any boxed dinner.
The Unexpected Comfort Food Revelation
You see, I grew up in a household where everything was made from scratch. Boxed Kraft Mac and Cheese or Chef Boyardee simply weren’t options. And honestly? I always wondered what I was missing. That is, until I finally tasted Spaghetti-Os as an adult. Ugh. What a disappointment! Mom was right all along, and she definitely told me so. Many, many times!
So, because I never truly experienced Hamburger Helper, I apologize if my description doesn’t quite hit the mark for some of you. But I can promise you this: it is utterly delicious regardless. If you’re a cheese lover, a comfort food enthusiast, or simply looking for a healthy meal that doesn’t taste “healthy,” you absolutely have to try this!
Just look at all that cheesy goodness! This dish is packed with nutritious cauliflower, making it an excellent way to get your veggies in. You can enjoy a generous serving without going over your allocated 21 Day Fix containers. Fair warning, though: you’ll likely want more, so be sure to portion out any extras immediately if you’re tempted to overindulge!
Why Cauliflower is Your New Best Friend in Healthy Eating
The star of this “mac” is undoubtedly cauliflower, transformed into a surprisingly perfect stand-in for traditional pasta. Cauliflower is incredibly versatile and offers a host of health benefits. It’s naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for the 21 Day Fix program and anyone looking to reduce their carb intake. Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and various antioxidants, cauliflower supports digestion, boosts immunity, and can even help reduce inflammation.
When combined with lean ground beef and a creamy, cheesy sauce, the cauliflower absorbs all those mouth-watering flavors, creating a dish that truly satisfies. It’s a brilliant way to sneak in more vegetables, even for those who might be hesitant about cauliflower. The texture is tender yet holds its own, giving you that satisfying “bite” without the heavy feeling of traditional macaroni.
The 21 Day Fix Advantage: A “No Yellow” Meal You’ll Love
For those following the 21 Day Fix program, finding delicious, compliant meals is key to success. This Cauliflower Cheeseburger “Mac” is a fantastic “no yellow” meal, meaning it’s free of complex carbohydrates like pasta, rice, or potatoes that would typically count as a “yellow” container. This allows you to fill up on protein (red), vegetables (green), healthy fats (blue), and a small amount of healthy oils (teaspoon) without compromising your carb allowance.
Each serving of this hearty dish breaks down to: 1 RED (protein), 1 GREEN (vegetables), 1 BLUE (healthy fat/cheese), and 1 TSP (healthy fat/butter or ghee). This clear container breakdown makes it incredibly easy to track your macros and stay on target with your fitness goals. It’s the kind of satisfying, flavorful meal that makes clean eating feel effortless and enjoyable, proving that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive.
While this recipe was initially born out of pure curiosity and a desire to create a healthier version of a classic, it has quickly become a staple in our home. And who knows, it might just be the stepping stone to a truly FIX-approved traditional Mac and Cheese recipe in the future! Stay tuned for that culinary adventure. Until then, make this cauliflower creation your next go-to. It’s a guaranteed new favorite!
Oven vs. Instant Pot: Choose Your Adventure!
I’ve updated this recipe to include Instant Pot directions because, let’s be real, especially during warmer months, who wants to turn on the oven? The Instant Pot offers incredible convenience, allowing you to whip up this dish without heating your kitchen. Plus, the one-pot cleanup is an absolute win!
Oven Method: The Classic Bake
The oven method delivers that classic casserole feel – a golden, bubbly cheese topping and a rich, creamy interior. It’s perfect for when you have a bit more time or want to make a larger batch for a family dinner or meal prep. The gentle bake allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deeply satisfying dish. You’ll start with steaming your cauliflower, browning your beef on the stove, and then bringing it all together in a casserole dish for that comforting, baked finish.
Instant Pot Method: Speed and Simplicity
If speed and minimal cleanup are your priorities, the Instant Pot is your go-to. Pressure steaming the cauliflower ensures it’s perfectly tender in record time, and you can brown your beef and create the cheese sauce all in the same pot. This makes for an incredibly efficient cooking process, ideal for busy weeknights. You’ll achieve the same creamy, cheesy goodness with significantly less fuss. Give both versions a try and let me know which one you prefer!
Cauliflower Cheeseburger “Mac”
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean grass fed ground beef
- 1 head cauliflower 4 cups of florets
- 4 teaspoons rice flour or flour of your choice
- 4 teaspoons vegan butter or ghee
- 1 cup unsweetened original almond milk
- 1 1/3 cups shredded cheddar cheese use Daiya for dairy free!
- Himalayan salt
Instructions
Stove Top/Oven:
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Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked and browned. Drain any excess fat thoroughly and transfer the cooked meat into the prepared casserole dish. Wipe out your skillet for the next step.
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While the beef is cooking, cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Steam about 4 cups worth for approximately 6-8 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender on the outside but still retains a slight crispness in the middle. Be careful not to overcook it to avoid a mushy texture.
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Return your clean skillet to medium heat. Melt the vegan butter or ghee. Once melted, sprinkle in the rice flour (or your chosen flour) and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the unsweetened almond milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and begins to thicken into a smooth sauce.
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Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with Himalayan salt to taste, adjusting as needed.
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Add the cooked ground beef and steamed cauliflower florets to the casserole dish. Pour the melted cheese sauce over the beef and cauliflower. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of cheese over the top of the mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and just starting to turn golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, healthy meal!
Instant Pot:
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Place the whole head of cauliflower on a trivet inside your Instant Pot. Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the pot. Secure the lid, set the vent to sealing, and set to steam for ZERO minutes. Once the pot comes to pressure, perform a quick release of the steam. Carefully remove the cauliflower using the trivet.
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Cut the steamed cauliflower into small florets and set them aside. Drain the water from the Instant Pot liner and dry it completely before proceeding.
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Return the Instant Pot liner to the base. Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the ground beef and brown until fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once cooked, remove the beef and set it aside with the cauliflower florets.
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Wipe out the Instant Pot liner again (to remove any residual fat from the beef). Add the vegan butter or ghee to the clean liner and melt it using the “Sauté” function. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Slowly whisk in the unsweetened almond milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture comes to a boil and begins to thicken into a creamy sauce.
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Once the sauce has thickened, immediately remove the stainless steel pot from the Instant Pot base (this effectively stops the heating process). Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with Himalayan salt to taste.
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Return the Instant Pot liner with the cheese sauce to the base. Add the cooked ground beef and cauliflower florets to the sauce. Mix everything well to combine. Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of cheese over the top. Place the lid back on the pot (without sealing) and set it to the “Warm” function until the cheese topping melts and starts to bubble. If necessary, you can briefly use the “Sauté” function on low to help the cheese melt faster, stirring carefully to avoid scorching the bottom. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick and easy Instant Pot version!
Notes
WW SmartPoints: Approximately 11 points per serving (calculated using 95% lean ground beef, rice flour, regular butter, and reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Points may vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands).
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, simply substitute regular shredded cheddar cheese with a high-quality dairy-free shredded cheddar alternative, such as Daiya. Ensure your vegan butter or ghee is also dairy-free.
Make Ahead & Storage: This dish makes fantastic leftovers! Store cooled portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This recipe is also great for meal prepping!
Nutrition
Tips for a Perfectly Delicious Cheeseburger “Mac”
- Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower: Whether steaming or pressure cooking, aim for tender-crisp florets. Overcooked cauliflower can become mushy and lose its appealing texture, which is crucial for this “mac” substitute.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Using lean, grass-fed ground beef not only enhances the flavor but also aligns perfectly with clean eating principles. Good quality cheddar cheese melts more smoothly and offers a richer taste.
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste your cheese sauce and the final mixture before baking or serving. A pinch more Himalayan salt or a dash of black pepper can really elevate the flavors.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to your cheese sauce, or serving with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add-Ins & Variations: Feel free to customize! Sautéed diced onions or bell peppers can be added to the beef for extra flavor and veggies. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions as a garnish adds freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be an excellent lean alternative. Just be sure to season it well, as poultry can be milder in flavor than beef.
- Is this recipe genuinely dairy-free if I use Daiya?
- Yes, by substituting the cheddar cheese with a quality dairy-free brand like Daiya and ensuring your butter/ghee is also vegan, this recipe becomes completely dairy-free while still retaining its cheesy appeal.
- Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
- This dish is fantastic for meal prep! Prepare the full recipe, let it cool completely, then portion it into individual airtight containers. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven, making it perfect for healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Can I freeze this Cauliflower Cheeseburger “Mac”?
- While it can be frozen, the texture of the cauliflower might become a bit softer upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, ensure it’s in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Healthy Comfort Meal Awaits!
There you have it – a truly delicious, satisfying, and incredibly healthy twist on a classic comfort food. This 21 Day Fix Cauliflower Cheeseburger “Mac” proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or satisfaction to stick to your health goals. With both oven and Instant Pot options, it’s versatile enough for any kitchen and any schedule.
We absolutely adore this recipe in our house, and I’m confident you will too. It’s hearty, packed with goodness, and hits all the right notes for a comforting meal. So go ahead, whip up a batch, savor every cheesy bite, and embrace the joy of healthy eating. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media!