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low-carb cauliflower mac and cheese - featured image

Low-Carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy Sharp Cheddar Dinner

  • Author: Lilya
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A creamy and cheesy low-carb alternative to traditional mac and cheese using tender cauliflower florets and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners that satisfy comfort food cravings without the carb overload.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower (about 600g / 1.3 lbs), chopped into bite-sized florets
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200g / 7 oz)
  • 4 oz cream cheese (115g), full fat
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120ml / 4 fl oz)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (45g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Wash the cauliflower and chop into bite-sized florets about 1 to 1½ inches across.
  2. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until fork-tender but not mushy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
  4. Add the cream cheese and whisk until smooth and melted with no lumps.
  5. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to keep the sauce silky.
  6. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. Warm gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened, do not boil.
  7. Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until melted before adding more. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of cream to loosen.
  8. Toss the steamed cauliflower into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all pieces.
  9. Heat for another 1-2 minutes until warmed through and sauce clings to cauliflower.
  10. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  11. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the cauliflower to avoid mushiness. Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese for best melting and flavor. Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent grainy sauce. Cheese sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated; reheat gently with a splash of cream. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days but do not freeze as sauce may separate.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 13
  • Carbohydrates: 9
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 14

Keywords: low-carb, cauliflower mac and cheese, keto, sharp cheddar, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal

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Find it online: https://platelyn.com/low-carb-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-sharp-cheddar-dinner/