Main Dishes
USA
USACreamy Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This keto-friendly cauliflower mac and cheese is incredibly creamy and satisfying. With a rich cheese sauce and tender cauliflower florets, you won't miss the pasta at all.
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
25 min
Servings
6
Calories
320
Calories:320
Protein:18g
Carbs:8g
Fat:26g
Keto Del Mundo Team
··40 min read
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits
Tags:
#comfort-food#vegetarian#gluten-free#high-fat#family-friendly
Preparation (Mise en Place)
Cauliflower Preparation
Cut the cauliflower into uniform florets for even cooking. Larger pieces will remain firm while smaller ones become mushy. Aim for 1-inch pieces.
Cheese Selection
Shred your own cheese from blocks rather than using pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Blanching Station
Set up an ice bath next to your boiling water. This allows you to stop the cooking process immediately, maintaining the perfect texture.
Instructions
Substitutions
Cauliflower Alternatives
Use broccoli for added nutrients, or try a mix of cauliflower and broccoli. Chopped zucchini or kohlrabi also work well as low-carb pasta substitutes.
Dairy-Free Options
Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream. Use nutritional yeast and cashew cream for a vegan cheese sauce that still hits those comfort food notes.
Cheese Blend Variations
Try smoked gouda for depth, add cream cheese for richness, or use aged parmesan for a sharper flavor. Gruyere creates an authentic French twist.
Chef's Tips
Avoid Soggy Cauliflower
Do not overcook the cauliflower. It should be tender but still have some bite. Steam instead of boiling to retain more nutrients and prevent waterlogging.
Silky Sauce Secret
Add cheese gradually to the warm cream sauce, stirring constantly. Adding all the cheese at once can cause clumping and graininess.
Crispy Topping
Broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top. Watch carefully as it can burn quickly.
Nutritional Information
320
Calories
26g
Fat
18g
Protein
8g
Carbs