Print

Creamy Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Topping Easy and Perfect

keto cauliflower mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A creamy, dreamy keto-friendly cauliflower mac and cheese with a crispy almond flour topping that mimics classic comfort food without the carbs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: dash of smoked paprika
  • Optional: chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut one large head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Steam or boil them until just tender but still firm (about 5-7 minutes). Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth.
  4. Slowly add 1/2 cup heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  5. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Transfer the cooked cauliflower florets to a large mixing bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over and gently fold together until cauliflower is evenly coated.
  8. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup almond flour, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, a dash of smoked paprika (optional), and 1 tablespoon melted butter. Stir to combine into crumbly topping.
  9. Transfer the cauliflower-cheese mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the almond flour topping over the surface.
  10. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese sauce is bubbly around the edges.
  11. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep cream cheese at room temperature before starting for easier melting and a smoother sauce. Do not overcook cauliflower to avoid mushiness. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results. If topping browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving to thicken sauce. For dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives, and replace butter with coconut oil.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/creamy-keto-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-topping-easy-and-perfect/