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Best Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course or Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting and Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a low-carb, keto-friendly twist on the classic comfort food, replacing pasta with roasted cauliflower and coated in a rich, creamy three-cheese sauce.


Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (or a combination of cream and whole milk)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Place the cauliflower pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Roast the cauliflower for 15-20 minutes, until tender but still slightly firm. For a charred effect, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  4. In a large saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream and cream cheese. Whisk until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
  5. Add the shredded cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using) to the saucepan. Continue to whisk until all the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the roasted cauliflower to the cheese sauce, stirring until all pieces are well coated.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Notes

  • You can use frozen cauliflower—thaw and dry thoroughly before roasting.
  • Use different cheese combinations like mozzarella or parmesan for variety.
  • To reheat, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 33g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg