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Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 21 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Carb

Description

A low-carb and creamy Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese that offers all the cheesy comfort of traditional mac and cheese without the carbs. This recipe features tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich and velvety cheese sauce made with cheddar, Parmesan, and heavy cream, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions


Instructions

  1. Cook cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets for 5–7 minutes until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside to remove any excess water.
  2. Make cheese sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter. Add the garlic powder and sauté for about 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
  3. Add cream & cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring the mixture until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine: Add the cooked cauliflower to the skillet and gently mash or stir it to coat the florets thoroughly with the cheese sauce, ensuring even coverage.
  5. Season & serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve the cauliflower mac and cheese hot.

Notes

  • Ensure to drain the cauliflower thoroughly after cooking to prevent the cheese sauce from becoming watery.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream for a dairy-free variation, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
  • For extra richness, add a splash of cream cheese into the sauce if desired.
  • This recipe reheats well in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat; add a splash of cream to restore creaminess if needed.
  • Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce can enhance the flavor complexity.