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Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Close-up of bubbling, golden-brown Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese baked in a white rectangular dish.

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A recipe for creamy, baked macaroni and cheese using cauliflower florets instead of pasta, suitable for a ketogenic diet.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are tender but still hold their shape, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain them very well; excess water causes a watery sauce. Pat them dry with a paper towel if needed.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese and stir until it melts into the butter.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese, a handful at a time, until the sauce is smooth and fully melted. Do not boil the sauce after adding the cheese, or it may separate.
  6. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Gently fold the drained cauliflower florets into the cheese sauce until they are evenly coated.
  8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with the Parmesan cheese.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • To prevent a watery dish, steam the cauliflower until just tender, not mushy. Squeeze out any remaining moisture after draining.
  • For a thicker sauce, you can whisk in 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum with the cream cheese, but this is usually not necessary if you drain the cauliflower well.
  • You can prepare the sauce and cauliflower ahead of time. Assemble the dish just before baking.

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