Description

This Cauliflower Mac and Cheese recipe features tender roasted cauliflower florets smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and cream cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s the perfect low-carb, keto-friendly comfort food that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil for extra keto benefits)

For the Cheese Sauce:

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces cream cheese, diced
1 1/2 cups extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded

Seasonings:

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a gentle kick)

For Topping:

Reserved cheddar cheese (about 3/4 cup)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to coat every piece evenly.

Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower

Pop the cauliflower into the oven and roast for about 18 minutes, or until the florets are tender and just starting to turn golden at the edges.

Step 3: Start the Cheese Sauce

While the cauliflower roasts, pour the heavy cream into a saucepan and heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Whisk it often to prevent scorching and keep the cream moving.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese

Toss in the diced cream cheese and stir continuously until it melts completely into the cream. You’ll see the sauce start to get thick and dreamy as the cream cheese dissolves.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low and stir in half of the cheddar cheese (about 3/4 cup) and all of the smoked gouda. Whisk gently until the cheese melts into a smooth, silky sauce with no lumps.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, ground mustard, sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Stir everything together and let it cook for 3–4 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully and deepen.

Step 7: Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Sauce

Add the roasted cauliflower to the cheese sauce and gently fold everything together until each floret is coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness. Be gentle so the florets don’t break apart.

Step 8: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Spoon the cheesy cauliflower mixture into your 9×9-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly. This is where the magic really happens as everything comes together.

Step 9: Top with Extra Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese (about 3/4 cup) over the top. This layer will melt into a golden, bubbly crown that everyone fights over.

Step 10: Bake and Broil

Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. If you want a beautifully browned top, pop it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes—but watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness.

Notes

Don’t overcook the cauliflower: You want tender florets with a little bite, not soft and mushy pieces that fall apart
Adjust the heat level: Skip the cayenne for a milder dish, or add a pinch more if you like a spicy kick
Make it extra indulgent: Crumble crispy bacon on top before baking for added flavor and crunch

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 38 minutes (18 minutes roasting + 20 minutes baking)
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American