Without a doubt, mac and cheese always tops the list as one of the ultimate guilty pleasure foods, satisfying the most ooey gooiest and cheesiest obsessions. Yet, when hunting a keto-friendly version of macaroni and cheese, finding keto recipes that come close to the real thing often fall short, until now. Enter keto cauliflower mac and cheese.
We know what you're thinking, a humble bowl of cauliflower florets isn't fooling anyone. Vegetables can't come close to pasta, or can they? Surprisingly, cauliflower is your best bet to be used in a piping hot bowl of mac n' cheese for its delicate mild flavor, a suitable vehicle for soaking up a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
The magic of this dreamy creamy keto cauliflower mac lies in the luscious cheesy sauce that blankets a bed of tender roasted cauliflower. The savory sauce features sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Blended with garlic and Dijon mustard, this dairy-licious sauce transforms an ordinary head of cauliflower into a sensational burst of flavor that will cure your cheesy pasta cravings in a snap.
Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, about 8 cups (cut into bite-sized florets)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces cream cheese (full fat), softened
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.
Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, about 8 cups. Rinse the florets in a colander and then dry.
Spread the cauliflower florets onto a baking sheet and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the florets are golden and fork-tender.
While the cauliflower is roasting in the oven, pour the heavy cream into a medium-sized saucepan. Bring the cream to a simmer, then add the cream cheese and mustard. Whisk the mixture until the cream cheese melts.
Using a wooden spoon, stir in the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and well blended. Remove the cheese sauce from the heat. Set aside.
Remove the roasted cauliflower florets from the oven, transfer them to a greased baking dish, and then turn the oven down to 375 degrees.
Pour the cheese sauce over the roasted cauliflower and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and hot. Serve immediately. Top with crushed pork rinds and/or crumbled bacon for an added treat! Enjoy.
Supplies
- Colander
- Baking sheet
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- 8x8-inch or 11x7-inch baking dish
Recipe Notes
How Many Carbs Per Serving?
Cauliflower mac and cheese has 8.5 grams of carbs per serving when divided into six servings.
Do I Have to Roast My Cauliflower?
No, but it's recommended. The other option would be to boil your cauliflower. Although this a quicker alternative, it doesn't offer the best results. Boiling cauliflower gives the cheese sauce a more watery consistency.
Can I Substitute Cauliflower Rice for Cauliflower Florets?
You can; however, you may notice that your cheese sauce is watery. To reduce the amount of liquid in the cauliflower rice, fry it in a dry frying pan for 10-15 minutes, allowing water to evaporate. Set aside and allow to cool before handling.
Is Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Filling Enough For Dinner?
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a delicious alternative for those on a keto diet or those looking to give their veggies an indulgent twist.
Cauliflower mac can be enjoyed as a cheesy side dish or a light meal. Transform your cauliflower mac and cheese into a feast by including some delicious low-carb add-ins such as lobster, bacon, or sliced grilled chicken.
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