Keto Mac Cheese Cauliflower

Indulge in a rich, creamy low-carb twist on classic mac and cheese with this delicious keto-friendly recipe. By using roasted cauliflower florets as the "pasta" base and adding crunchy bacon crumbs for extra flavor, this dish provides all the comfort of the original without the high carb count. It is a satisfying meal perfect for anyone following a gluten-free or ketogenic lifestyle.

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This recipe is designed to be simple yet decadent. Whether you are looking for a hearty main dish or a flavorful side to accompany grilled meats, this cheesy cauliflower bake is sure to become a household favorite. The smoky paprika and roasted notes make it a sophisticated upgrade to traditional comfort food.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 1 large head cauliflower (about 800 g), cut into bite-size florets
• Dairy: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Meats: 6 slices bacon
• Pantry & Spices: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Garnish (optional): 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prep

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Roast Cauliflower

Spread cauliflower florets on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon melted butter, season with salt and pepper, and toss. Roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender, stirring once.

Step 3: Prepare Bacon

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy (7–8 minutes). Drain on paper towels and crumble into fine crumbs.

Step 4: Make Sauce Base

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the remaining butter. Whisk in heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 5: Melt Cheese

Gradually stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth and thick without letting it boil.

Step 6: Combine

Add roasted cauliflower to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat all pieces.

Step 7: Final Bake

Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with bacon crumbs, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 7–10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure a perfectly smooth cheese sauce, it is important to whisk the cheeses in gradually and keep the heat at medium-low; boiling the sauce can cause the dairy to separate. For the best flavor, make sure the cauliflower is truly golden-brown after roasting, as this caramelization adds a nutty depth to the final dish.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this recipe by swapping the sharp cheddar for Gruyère or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat. For even more crunch, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed pork rinds along with the bacon crumbs before the final baking step.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven, for the best texture. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. It works wonderfully as a standalone main meal or as a hearty side dish served alongside grilled chicken or steak.

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With 455 calories and 20g of protein per serving, this Keto Mac and Cheese is as nourishing as it is delicious. Enjoy the comforting warmth of a cheesy casserole while staying on track with your nutritional goals.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute cauliflower with other vegetables?

Yes, sturdy vegetables like broccoli or zucchini can work, but roasting time may vary and affect texture.

→ How do I achieve a creamy sauce without curdling?

Keep heat low when melting cheeses and whisk continuously to blend smoothly without boiling the sauce.

→ What bacon alternatives can be used?

Turkey bacon or vegetarian smoked crumbles can offer a similar crunchy, smoky finish.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

You can roast cauliflower and cook bacon in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving for freshest results.

→ What garnishes complement the flavors?

Fresh herbs like chives or parsley add brightness and color to balance the rich cheese and bacon.