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Creamy Low-Carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Bake

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A creamy, cheesy, low-carb cauliflower mac and cheese bake perfect for keto dinners, offering comfort food without the carb overload.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 4 cups florets), fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for roasting)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free twist)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted (to brush over the top)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Chop the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Toss them with olive oil or melted butter, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast the cauliflower for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and slightly golden on the edges.
  4. While the cauliflower roasts, prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the cream cheese melts into a smooth mixture (about 3-5 minutes).
  5. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.
  6. Transfer the roasted cauliflower into a mixing bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over it and gently toss to coat all the florets evenly.
  7. Pour the cauliflower and cheese mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Brush with melted butter for a golden crust.
  9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Notes

Roasting the cauliflower is essential to prevent sogginess and build flavor. Soften cream cheese before melting for a smooth sauce. Add cheese gradually to avoid clumps. If topping browns too fast, tent with foil. For dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese and cheese alternatives. Leftovers taste better after a day.

Nutrition

Keywords: low-carb, keto, cauliflower, mac and cheese, creamy, cheese bake, comfort food, gluten-free

Find it online: https://islatable.com/creamy-low-carb-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-bake-easy-recipe-for-perfect-keto-dinner/