Description
A creamy, cheesy, and low-carb alternative to classic mac and cheese using cauliflower instead of pasta. Ready in about 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for quick comfort food that fits a low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head cauliflower florets (about 5 cups / 700g)
- 4 tablespoons butter (60g)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (200g)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt and fresh cracked black pepper)
- Optional: 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- Optional: 1-2 cups shredded cooked chicken
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over the pot, cover, and steam until tender but not mushy—about 8 minutes.
- While the cauliflower steams, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Once melted, whisk in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Warm gently until tiny bubbles appear around the edges, about 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Transfer steamed cauliflower to a large mixing bowl. Pour cheese sauce over it and gently toss to coat evenly. Fold in bacon or cooked chicken if using.
- Serve immediately, optionally topped with extra Parmesan or fresh cracked black pepper.
Notes
Do not oversteam cauliflower to avoid mushy texture. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor. Melt cheese on low heat to prevent grainy sauce. Sauce thickness can be adjusted with cream or milk. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently with splash of cream or milk. Freezing not recommended due to sauce separation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 13
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 14
Keywords: low-carb, cauliflower, mac and cheese, keto, comfort food, cheesy, quick dinner, easy recipe