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Creamy Low-Carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

low-carb cauliflower mac and cheese - featured image
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A creamy, low-carb alternative to traditional mac and cheese using roasted cauliflower florets and a rich cheese sauce. Easy to prepare and perfect for cozy dinners or low-carb diets.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) shredded sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream (use full-fat; substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper)
  • Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Rinse and dry the cauliflower, then cut into bite-sized florets. Toss them in 1 tablespoon melted butter and a pinch of salt and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the florets out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown on the edges and tender when pierced with a fork.
  4. While the cauliflower roasts, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese and stir constantly until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Slowly pour in 3/4 cup heavy cream, whisking continuously to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened, avoiding vigorous boiling.
  6. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to blend all flavors.
  7. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more cream or milk to reach desired consistency.
  8. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to the saucepan and gently fold to coat all florets evenly with the cheese sauce.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

Roasting the cauliflower adds nuttiness and a firmer bite that mimics pasta better than boiling. Melt cream cheese slowly and stir constantly to avoid lumps. Avoid overheating the sauce to prevent separation. Freshly shred cheddar cheese for best meltability. Keep cauliflower warm when mixing to help sauce coat evenly. If sauce thickens too much, stir in more cream or warm water.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://tastypierecipes.com/creamy-low-carb-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-and-healthy/