Description
A creamy, rich, and ridiculously easy low-carb cauliflower mac and cheese that tastes like comfort food heaven without the carb crash. Ready in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 1.5 kg), cut into florets
- 2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dry the cauliflower, then cut into 1-2 inch florets. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender but firm. Drain and set aside, reserving some cooking water.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom spices.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
- Add the drained cauliflower to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, topped with optional bacon bits, green onions, or extra cheese.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese to prevent graininess. Squeeze excess water from frozen cauliflower to avoid a watery sauce. Keep heat low when melting cheese to ensure a smooth texture. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce cheese amount.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 13
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 14
Keywords: low-carb, cauliflower mac and cheese, keto dinner, quick weeknight meals, comfort food, gluten-free, easy recipe