Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Keto Dream Come True!

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food without the carb guilt! Our Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a game-changer for anyone following a keto lifestyle or simply looking to add more veggies to their diet. This dish transforms humble cauliflower into a luxurious, cheesy delight that’ll have you wondering why you ever needed pasta in the first place.

Picture this: tender roasted cauliflower florets nestled in a velvety cheese sauce, bubbling and golden straight from the oven. The aroma of melted cheese and herbs will fill your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to wait until it’s cool enough to eat. It’s the perfect side dish for a family dinner or a standalone meal for those cozy nights in.

While traditional mac and cheese has been a beloved comfort food for generations, this cauliflower version offers a modern, health-conscious twist. By swapping out pasta for nutrient-rich cauliflower, you’re not only cutting carbs but also adding fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your plate. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some grilled chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients:

1 large head of cauliflower cut into florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup heavy cream

8 ounces cream cheese softened

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread the seasoned cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.

4. While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the cheese sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

5. Add the heavy cream and cream cheese to the melted butter, stirring until smooth.

6. Gradually add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until fully melted and combined.

7. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

8. Once the cauliflower is roasted, transfer it to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a lined muffin tin (for individual servings)

9. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, gently stirring to coat evenly.

10. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden on top.

11. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

4. Prepare the cheese sauce as instructed above.

5. Combine the roasted cauliflower and cheese sauce in silicone muffin cups that fit in your air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.

6. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Notes:

• For extra crunch, top with crushed pork rinds before the final bake.
• To make it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 cup

Calories: 320

Fat: 28g

Protein: 14g

Carbohydrates: 6g

Fiber: 2g

Net Carbs: 4g

Other Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Equipment: Oven, baking sheet, saucepan, 9×13 inch baking dish

Estimated cost per serving: $2.50

Total cost: $15.00 (6 servings)

In Conclusion, Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

This Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a testament to how delicious and satisfying keto-friendly cooking can be. By reimagining a classic comfort food, we’ve created a dish that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.

Find more Keto-friendly meal ideas here!