Description
This Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and low-carb twist on the classic comfort dish. Made with tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, this casserole delivers all the indulgent flavors without the carbs of traditional pasta. Perfect for keto and gluten-free diets, it’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower
- 1 large head of cauliflower (cut into small florets)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping and Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes until just tender. Drain well and set aside to prevent excess moisture.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese, whisking continuously until smooth and creamy. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until they are completely melted and incorporated into a creamy sauce.
- Season Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings and enhance the flavor.
- Combine Cauliflower with Sauce: Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Gently stir to coat all the cauliflower pieces evenly with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the cheesy cauliflower mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top to develop a flavorful crust during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Optional Broiling: For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm for a comforting, keto-friendly meal.
Notes
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
- You can substitute different cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a more complex flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make sure to drain the cauliflower well after boiling to avoid a watery casserole.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
