Description
A creamy, budget-friendly, and kid-approved low-carb mac and cheese made with cauliflower and sharp cheddar cheese. Ready in 30 minutes, this gluten-free comfort food is perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 1.5 kg), cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (200g) freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ cup cooked bacon bits
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- Optional: ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds
Instructions
- Wash and pat dry the cauliflower. Cut into bite-sized florets and mince the garlic. Grate the cheese.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and boil for 5-7 minutes until tender but firm (al dente).
- Drain the cauliflower in a colander and let it steam dry for a minute to remove excess moisture. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in mustard powder and smoked paprika, stirring constantly for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let bubble gently for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually add the grated cheddar and mozzarella, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Add the drained cauliflower back into the saucepan and gently fold until every piece is coated in the cheese sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately topped with chives and pepper, or transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with panko/pork rinds, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.
Notes
Grate your own cheese to ensure a smooth sauce; pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting. Do not overcook the cauliflower or it will turn to mush. Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation. This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 14
Keywords: low-carb, cauliflower mac and cheese, budget dinner, gluten-free, keto friendly, family dinner, comfort food, quick meals