Cauliflower and Noodle Au gratin

The name on the recipe card from my Mother is Mac and Cheese and Cauliflower. Not the most interesting name in the world, but it is really good and you can make a big batch for brunches and pot lucks or a smaller amount for a family meal.  The amounts here will make a 9 x 13 baking dish's worth.  I use this as a main dish but I realize that most people would use this as a side dish.  It doesn't photograph that well, cauliflower is white and kind of lumpy after all.  If you can excuse my less than exciting photos and just trust me that this packs a ton of flavor!



1 small or 1/2 head of cauliflower

2 cups egg noodles (Mom used 1 1/3 cup elbow)

4 oz grated cheddar cheese

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 cup milk

2 tbs butter

1 can green chiles

salt and pepper and onion powder to taste

a few drops of hot sauce or wing sauce

Bring salted water to a boil and cook noodles. Drain and reserve.  Boil cauliflower till fork tender.  In a mixing bowl combine noodles, cheddar cheese, milk, green chilies, salt and pepper and onion powder.



Mash the cauliflower in a separate bowl with the butter and salt and pepper.



Add mashed cauliflower to the noodle mixture and place in a greased baking dish (with fat free non stick spray).  Top with the parmesan cheese.



Bake at 350 for 30 minutes then put under the broiler for 3 minutes to brown the top.



I don't think Mom will care that I changed the name and tweaked the recipe a little.  This is delicious!