Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a low-carb, creamy, and comforting alternative to traditional macaroni and cheese. Made with cauliflower florets simmered until tender and smothered in a rich cheese sauce featuring cheddar, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, and a hint of mustard and hot sauce for a subtle kick. It’s a delicious, keto-friendly twist perfect for those looking to enjoy a cheesy dish with fewer carbohydrates.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 pound cauliflower florets
Dairy and Cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- Dash of hot sauce
Instructions
- Boil Cauliflower: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Chop the cauliflower into small macaroni-sized pieces, then add them to the boiling water and cook for 5 minutes until tender but still firm.
- Drain and Return to Pot: Drain the water from the pot, leaving the cauliflower inside the hot pot to retain residual heat.
- Add Dairy and Seasonings: Add the heavy cream, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, ground mustard, salt, cracked pepper, and a dash of hot sauce to the pot with the cauliflower.
- Melt Cheese and Combine: Stir well to combine, allowing the cheese to melt fully into a smooth sauce, approximately 2-3 minutes. If necessary, briefly return the pot to low heat to help melt the cheese, but don’t overheat to avoid a grainy texture.
- Serve: Serve the creamy cauliflower mac and cheese immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Monterey Jack cheese adds a creamy, mild flavor; you can substitute with mozzarella if unavailable.
- Be careful not to overcook the cauliflower to keep it from becoming mushy.
- To avoid grainy cheese sauce, melt the cheese gently without high heat.
- This dish is a low-carb alternative, great for keto and low-carb diets.
Keywords: cauliflower mac and cheese, low carb mac and cheese, keto mac and cheese, cauliflower recipes, creamy cauliflower dish, low carb comfort food
