This Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a dreamy twist on a classic comfort food, swapping pasta for tender cauliflower florets. In just 20 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. The cauliflower soaks up the rich, velvety sauce, creating a perfect blend of textures that feels indulgent yet light.
Every bite offers a symphony of flavors, from the sharp cheddar to the subtle nuttiness of Parmesan, all tied together with a hint of garlic. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite mac and cheese, packed with wholesome ingredients and keto-friendly goodness. Perfect for cozy nights or impressing dinner guests, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be deliciously decadent.
What You’ll Need
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into small florets (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil as a substitute)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream (substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free)
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese blend, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 ounce crushed pork rinds (about ⅓ cup, optional for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and set aside. Lightly spray a 1-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
- Toss the cauliflower: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with avocado oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the cauliflower: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the florets are golden and crisp-tender. Remove from the oven and reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the cheese sauce: During the last 5 minutes of roasting, heat the heavy cream in a large saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a low simmer. Reduce the heat to low.
- Add cheeses and butter: Stir in the cream cheese, cheddar cheese blend, and butter until fully melted and smooth. Remove the pan from the heat.
- Combine cauliflower and sauce: Gently fold the roasted cauliflower into the cheese sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Optional bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with additional shredded cheddar and crushed pork rinds (if using). Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy warm as a comforting keto-friendly side or main dish!
Serving Suggestions for Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, crispy bacon bits, or pan-seared shrimp. If you’re serving a crowd, double the recipe and pair it with keto-friendly garlic bread made from almond flour.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and warm on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For a crispier texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the flavors by using different cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or smoked cheddar. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the sauce. If pork rinds aren’t your thing, try topping the dish with crushed almonds or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a crunchy finish. You can also swap cauliflower for broccoli or zucchini for a fun twist.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save time, prep the cauliflower florets a day ahead and store them in the fridge. You can also use pre-shredded cheese to skip a step. If you’re in a rush, skip the final baking step and serve the dish straight from the stovetop—it’s just as creamy and delicious!
Equipment Guidance for Perfect Results
A sturdy baking sheet and a 1-quart baking dish are essential for this recipe. Use a silicone spatula to fold the cauliflower into the cheese sauce gently, ensuring the florets stay intact. For even roasting, spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet, and don’t overcrowd the pan. A whisk can help create a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower cut into small florets
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese blend shredded, plus more for topping
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 ounce crushed pork rinds (about ⅓ cup, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and set aside. Spray a 1-quart baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until golden and crisp-tender. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and reduce the heat to 375 degrees F.
- In the last 5 minutes of the cauliflower cook time, set a large saucepan over medium heat. Heat the cream to a low simmer, then decrease heat to low.
- Stir in the cheeses and butter until melted.
- Remove the pan from the heat, then fold in the roasted cauliflower. Taste and season as desired.
- Serve as is, or transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top evenly with additional cheddar and crushed pork rinds and bake, uncovered, for 12-15 minutes, or until golden.