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Creamy Low Carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crunchy Cheese Topping

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This creamy low carb cauliflower mac and cheese is a comforting, guilt-free twist on the classic, featuring tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich cheese sauce and topped with a crunchy, golden cheese layer. It’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for keto, gluten-free, or vegetarian diets.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into bite-sized florets
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste (start with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp crushed pork rinds (optional, skip for vegetarian)
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the cauliflower head into bite-sized florets. Rinse well and pat dry. If using frozen, thaw and drain to remove excess moisture.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 5-6 minutes until just tender but not mushy. Drain well in a colander and set aside. Let the cauliflower cool and dry for a few minutes.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Pour in heavy cream, whisking constantly, until the mixture is silky and slightly thickened (2-3 minutes).
  5. Add shredded cheddar and grated parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained cauliflower florets with the warm cheese sauce until every piece is coated.
  8. Pour the cheesy cauliflower mixture into a prepared oven-safe baking dish, spreading evenly.
  9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan evenly over the top. Add crushed pork rinds and fresh chives or parsley if using.
  10. Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. For extra crunch, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely.
  11. Let the mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes before serving to help the sauce thicken.
  12. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Notes

For best results, dry cauliflower thoroughly after boiling to prevent watery sauce. Use freshly grated cheese for optimal melt and flavor. Broil the top for extra crunch, but watch closely to avoid burning. Easily adapt for vegetarian or vegan diets by omitting pork rinds and using plant-based cheeses and coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: low carb, cauliflower mac and cheese, keto, gluten-free, comfort food, cheesy, vegetarian option, easy dinner, healthy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/creamy-low-carb-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crunchy-cheese-topping/