Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that won't derail your low-carb lifestyle? This Low Carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, transforming humble cauliflower into a rich and satisfying dish that will leave you craving more! With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up this guilt-free version of a classic favorite that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to enjoy all the cheesy goodness without the carbs!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
- Wash the cauliflower head thoroughly and cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Place the cauliflower florets in a large microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Alternatively, you can steam the florets for 4-5 minutes.
- Drain any excess water from the cauliflower and pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps prevent a watery final dish.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Transfer the cauliflower florets to the prepared baking dish and pour the cheese mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all florets are well coated.
- Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix the cauliflower and cheese sauce, ensuring even distribution.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
- Serve hot as a delicious low-carb side dish or light main course, garnishing with additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cauliflower: For the best texture and flavor, select a fresh head of cauliflower. Look for firm florets without any brown spots.
- Uniform Florets: Cut the cauliflower into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Microwave or Steam: If you're short on time, microwaving the cauliflower is a quick method to soften it. Just be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Pat Dry: After microwaving or steaming, make sure to drain and pat the cauliflower dry. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a creamy, not watery, mac and cheese.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses! Adding a bit of mozzarella or gouda can enhance the flavor profile and creaminess.
- Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on the baking time. You want the top to be golden brown and bubbly, which adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Flavor: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra flavor kick and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 354kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 81mg
