Creamy & Comforting Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese (Low-Carb & Quick Side!)
Craving classic mac and cheese without the carbs? This Creamy & Comforting Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheesedelivers! Tender cauliflower rice is transformed into a rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying side dish with a luscious cream cheese sauce and plenty of melted cheese. It’s quick, easy, naturally low-carb, and gluten-free!
Yields: 2-3 servings Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10-15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower Base:
- 1 (10-12 ounce) bag frozen cauliflower rice (or 3-4 cups fresh cauliflower florets, riced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (for cooking cauliflower)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream (instead of “splash of milk” for richer, keto-friendly sauce)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (sharp cheddar, white cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend work well; freshly shredded recommended)
- Optional: Pinch of mustard powder (enhances cheese flavor)
Equipment:
- Large skillet (with a lid, if possible)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Whisk (optional, for sauce)
Instructions:
- Cook Cauliflower Rice: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the frozen cauliflower rice (no need to thaw if using frozen).
- Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower rice is tender-crisp and any excess moisture has evaporated. If using fresh cauliflower florets, finely rice them in a food processor, then cook in the same manner.
- Season the cooked cauliflower rice with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well. Remove the seasoned cauliflower rice from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese and heavy whipping cream to the same skillet.
- Whisk constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the heavy cream, forming a smooth base.
- Add the 1 cup of shredded cheese (and optional mustard powder). Continue whisking over low heat until all the cheese is melted and you have a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine & Serve: Return the cooked cauliflower rice to the skillet with the cheese sauce.
- Stir everything together until the cauliflower rice is thoroughly coated with the warm, cheesy sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper) if needed.
- Serve immediately as a hot, comforting side dish.
Tips for Success:
- Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the smoothest, creamiest cheese sauce, always shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- Heavy Cream for Keto: Using heavy whipping cream instead of regular milk ensures a richer, thicker, and more keto-compliant sauce with higher fat content.
- Cauliflower Prep: Ensure cauliflower rice is cooked to your desired tenderness. You can roast it first for deeper flavor before adding to the sauce.
- Seasoning: Don’t skip the seasoning on the cauliflower itself, it builds layers of flavor.
- Customization:
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
- Stir in a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Broil briefly: For a crispy top, transfer the mixed cauliflower mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with a bit more cheese, and broil for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Storage: Store any leftover Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification
- High Protein: Moderate protein from cheese and cream cheese.
- Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is very low-carb. Cauliflower replaces high-carb pasta, and all other ingredients are keto-friendly.
- Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. All listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Essential for the rich, high-fat sauce.
- Freshly Shredded Cheese: Important for texture and avoiding starches in pre-shredded varieties.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
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