As a lover of casserole, you must get this cheesy and creamy Keto cauliflower mac and cheese recipe on hand.
Made with heavy cream, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, fontina, cauliflower and some seasonings tasted to perfection, this casserole is a mouth-watering side dish of both keto and non-keto eaters.
In this article, we introduce a tasty yet simple recipe for keto cauliflower mac and cheese to make at home. If you want to add a delicious and keto friendly side food to your diet or treat your family something good at lazy weekend, this recipe would be perfect!
Keto Cauliflower Mac And Cheese
Course: SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy3
servings10
minutes30
minutes393
kcalAs a lover of casserole, you must get this cheesy and creamy Keto cauliflower mac and cheese recipe on hand.
Ingredients
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small 1/2″ to 1″ pieces
8 oz heavy cream
2 oz cream cheese
4 oz sharp cheddar, shredded
4 oz fontina, shredded
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 1/4 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Coat an 8×8 baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.
- Steam cut cauliflower for 4-5 minutes, until barely tender. Remove from heat and drain well. Pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
- In a small pot, combine heavy cream, cheeses, cream cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook over medium heat until smooth. Stir well.
- Add cauliflower to cheese mixture and toss to coat.
- Pour the mixture into baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven. Let it cool for 6 minutes. Serve.
Notes
- Aside from steamed, cauliflower can also be parboiled, baked or pan-fried. Choose your favorite type!
FAQ
Is keto cauliflower mac and cheese really keto-friendly?
Yes. This recipe replaces traditional pasta with cauliflower and uses high-fat, low-carb ingredients like heavy cream and cheese, making it suitable for a keto diet.
Does it taste like real mac and cheese?
While it does not taste exactly like pasta-based mac and cheese, it delivers a very similar creamy, cheesy flavor and texture that satisfies most cravings.
Why is the cauliflower steamed first?
Steaming softens the cauliflower slightly so it cooks evenly in the oven, while draining and drying it prevents the casserole from becoming watery.
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes. Thaw the cauliflower completely and pat it dry thoroughly before using to avoid excess moisture.
Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?
Yes. You can swap fontina or cheddar with other keto-friendly cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack, depending on your taste preference.
How do I make the sauce extra smooth and creamy?
Cook the cheese sauce gently over medium heat and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Avoid overheating, which can cause separation.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, and bake when ready to serve.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can this recipe be frozen?
It can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly after reheating due to the dairy. Stir well after reheating to restore creaminess.
What dishes pair well with keto cauliflower mac and cheese?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, roasted vegetables, or any keto-friendly protein as a side dish.




