Pin It Finding comfort in a low-carb lifestyle is easy with this Keto Mac and Cheese. By using roasted cauliflower as a base instead of pasta, you create a dish that is just as satisfying and rich as the original. Smothered in a velvety four-cheese sauce and topped with smoky bacon, it’s a meal that truly hits the spot.
Pin It The key to this recipe is the roasting process. Unlike steaming, roasting removes excess moisture from the cauliflower, ensuring the cheese sauce stays thick and luxurious rather than watered down. This makes it the perfect keto alternative for anyone missing traditional macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large head cauliflower (about 800 g), cut into bite-size florets
- Dairy: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 ounces cream cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Meats: 6 slices bacon
- Pantry & Spices: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Garnish (optional): 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Spread cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon melted butter, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 20–25 minutes, until golden and tender, stirring once halfway through.
- Step 3
- Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 7–8 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into fine crumbs. Set aside.
- Step 4
- In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and the cream cheese is melted (2–3 minutes).
- Step 5
- Gradually stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thick (do not boil).
- Step 6
- Add roasted cauliflower to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat all pieces.
- Step 7
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle evenly with bacon crumbs, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 7–10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Step 8
- Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To prevent the cheese sauce from breaking or becoming grainy, ensure you stir in the cheese gradually over medium-low heat and never let the mixture reach a full boil. Also, make sure your cauliflower is completely dry before roasting to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra texture, add a sprinkle of crushed pork rinds with the bacon crumbs. You can also swap cheddar for Gruyère for a more sophisticated flavor profile or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this dish as a hearty main course with a simple side salad, or as a decadent side dish paired with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted salmon.
Pin It Whether you are strictly keto or just looking for a delicious way to eat more vegetables, this roasted cauliflower mac and cheese is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. It's warm, cheesy, and satisfyingly crunchy.
Questions & Answers
- → What can I use instead of cauliflower florets?
Steamed broccoli or zucchini chunks can work as substitutes to keep the dish low-carb and flavorful.
- → How do I get crispy bacon crumbs?
Cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then drain on paper towels and crumble finely.
- → Can I use different cheeses in the sauce?
Yes, Gruyère or smoked gouda can add unique flavors while maintaining creaminess.
- → What is the best way to roast cauliflower evenly?
Toss florets in melted butter, salt, and pepper, then spread in a single layer and roast about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.
- → How can I add extra heat to this dish?
A pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes added to the cheese sauce works well.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, it contains no gluten ingredients but check for cross-contamination on packaged products.