Description
A creamy, rich, and comforting low-carb mac and cheese made with cauliflower and sharp cheddar. This keto-friendly dinner is ready in just 20 minutes and requires only five simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2.5 pounds / 1.1 kg), cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
- 3 cups (300g) freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets (1-1.5 inches). Rinse to remove dirt.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender but firm (al dente). Drain immediately in a colander.
- Spread the drained cauliflower on paper towels and pat dry thoroughly to remove surface moisture.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add dried cauliflower and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to low in the same skillet. Pour in heavy cream and add garlic powder, mustard powder, and black pepper. Heat until warm and steaming, but not boiling.
- Remove skillet from heat. Add grated cheddar cheese gradually, a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Return the sautéed cauliflower to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the cheese sauce. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve immediately.
Notes
Grate your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Do not overcook the cauliflower to avoid mushiness. Dry the cauliflower thoroughly after boiling to ensure a creamy sauce. If the sauce becomes grainy, it was likely too hot; remove from heat before adding cheese. This recipe does not freeze well.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 13
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 14
Keywords: keto, low-carb, cauliflower mac and cheese, gluten-free, quick dinner, comfort food, cheddar cheese, 5-ingredient recipe