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Creamy Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

creamy keto cauliflower mac and cheese - featured image
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A comforting low-carb twist on classic mac and cheese using roasted cauliflower and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for keto and low-carb diets.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups florets), chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml), full-fat
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 ounces)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt)
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Chop the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, then spread them out on the baking sheet. Toss with 1 tablespoon of melted butter, salt, and a pinch of pepper.
  3. Roast the cauliflower for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly golden.
  4. While the cauliflower roasts, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  5. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Add the cream cheese to the pan and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
  7. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  8. Stir in the mustard powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 4-5 minutes.
  9. Remove the pan from heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until completely melted and silky smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  10. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a large mixing bowl or keep it on the baking sheet if ovenproof. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower and gently fold to coat every floret.
  11. Optional: For a golden crust, transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake an additional 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C), until bubbly and slightly browned on top.
  12. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving. Serve hot.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick after adding cheese, whisk in a splash more heavy cream or broth. If too thin, cook a minute longer to thicken. Use fresh shredded cheese for best melting results. Soften cream cheese to room temperature before melting to avoid clumps. Roasting cauliflower is key for flavor and texture. For dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto, low-carb, cauliflower mac and cheese, creamy, cheese sauce, keto dinner, low-carb dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/creamy-keto-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-low-carb-dinner-idea/