The Best Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This dish swaps traditional pasta for tender roasted cauliflower, enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. With hints of garlic and Dijon mustard, this recipe delivers all the flavor of classic mac and cheese while keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly.
Stock images are for illustrative purposes only.
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower:
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 ounces cream cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
We also have another cheese sauce recipe that would go well with cauliflower!
Optional Toppings:
1/4 cup crushed pork rinds (for crunch)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Prepare the Cauliflower
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Cook until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Bake
Gently fold the roasted cauliflower into the cheese sauce until well coated.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
If using, sprinkle the crushed pork rinds over the top for added crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions to the cheese sauce.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Enjoy your creamy and delicious Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese!
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/6 of yield) |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 12g |
Fat | 27g |
Carbohydrates | 7g |
Fiber | 3g |
Net Carbs | 4g |