Name: Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 oz cream cheese; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Crumbled bacon (for garnish)

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This Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a rich, cheesy, low-carb twist on the classic comfort food, featuring tender cauliflower florets smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crispy bacon for the perfect indulgent bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food without the carbs, this Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese delivers all the creamy, savory goodness of traditional mac and cheese with a healthier, keto-friendly spin. Swapping pasta for cauliflower reduces carbs while still offering a satisfying texture. The cheese sauce—featuring cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese—is irresistibly rich and flavorful. Topped with crispy bacon, this dish is a complete indulgence that fits right into your low-carb lifestyle. It’s easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 oz cream cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Crumbled bacon (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Steam or boil cauliflower florets until just tender (about 6–8 minutes). Drain thoroughly and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until all cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Fold the cauliflower into the cheese sauce, coating each piece evenly.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Garnish with crumbled bacon and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Herb-Infused: Stir in chopped chives, parsley, or thyme for a fresh flavor boost.
Meatier Option: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or ground beef for a full meal.
Cheese Blend: Try gouda, pepper jack, or gruyère for a different taste profile.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with butter on top before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from affecting the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Stir gently and avoid overheating the cheese sauce. Use low to medium heat for a smooth consistency.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

Can I skip the baking step?

Yes, it can be served right after mixing if you prefer a stove-top version, though baking adds a nice finish.

What type of bacon works best for garnish?

Crispy cooked bacon, crumbled into small pieces, works best for both texture and flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Is this suitable for kids?

Absolutely. The creamy cheese and mild cauliflower flavor make it kid-friendly.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be sautéed and added for extra variety.

What cheese melts best in this dish?

Cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese melt well and create a rich, cohesive sauce. Parmesan adds flavor but is not as melty.

Is this dish keto-approved?

Yes, it’s high in fat, low in carbs, and fits perfectly into a ketogenic diet.

Conclusion

Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is the ultimate low-carb comfort food, delivering the creamy, cheesy decadence of traditional mac and cheese without the pasta. With its flavorful cheese blend, tender cauliflower, and crispy bacon topping, this dish is a surefire hit for anyone following a keto or gluten-free diet. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a hearty side—or even a main course—you’ll want to make again and again.

Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

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Author: Asma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Steam or boil cauliflower florets until tender but not mushy (about 6–8 minutes). Drain well and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and sauce is creamy.
Fold in cauliflower florets until evenly coated with cheese sauce.
Transfer to the baking dish and bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Garnish with crumbled bacon before serving.