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Low Carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy Homemade Comfort Food

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A creamy, cheesy, and low carb alternative to traditional mac and cheese using cauliflower florets. Perfect for comfort food cravings without the carb overload.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 ounces / 225 g)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, roughly 4 cups. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower and cook for 5-6 minutes until just tender but not mushy. Drain well and set aside. Alternatively, steam the cauliflower for about the same time.
  2. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and stir for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
  3. Reduce heat to low and whisk in the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  4. Slowly pour in the 1 cup heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste. Let this mixture cook gently for about 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and gradually stir in shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan, reserving a small handful of cheddar for topping if baking. Stir until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is silky and smooth.
  6. Add the drained cauliflower florets to the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Optional: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cauliflower mac and cheese into an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle reserved cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overcook the cauliflower to avoid mushiness. Keep heat low when melting cheeses to prevent graininess. If sauce is too thick, add a splash more cream or milk. Softening cream cheese before adding helps create a smooth sauce. Shredding cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded cheese. Salt the boiling water to season cauliflower subtly. Optional baking step adds a golden crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: low carb, cauliflower mac and cheese, comfort food, keto, cheesy, easy recipe, healthy dinner

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/low-carb-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/