Description

This Creamy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a delightful low-carb twist on the classic comfort food. Tender cauliflower florets are enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce made from a creamy roux and melted cheddar cheese, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a lighter main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

8 cups cauliflower, chopped into 1-inch florets (about 1 large head)

Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups whole milk
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
2 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)

Topping

¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chives or green onions, finely chopped (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dish later.
Steam Cauliflower: Place the chopped cauliflower florets in a microwave-safe bowl, add about an inch of water, and cover with a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 8 minutes, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
Make Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste while stirring constantly.
Add Milk: Reduce heat to medium-low. Slowly whisk in the whole milk a little at a time until fully incorporated. Continue cooking, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens into a smooth consistency.
Season and Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat. Stir in kosher salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and nutmeg to evenly blend the flavors. Then, add 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
Combine Cauliflower and Sauce: Add the steamed cauliflower to the cheese sauce and gently mix to coat all florets evenly. Transfer this mixture to a baking dish.
Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
Broil for Browning: For a crispier top, switch the oven to broil and cook the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese and breadcrumbs turn a golden brown color.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with finely chopped chives or green onions. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Pair with a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

Shred the cheese yourself for better melting and flavor.
You can substitute Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates due to the cauliflower substitution for traditional pasta.
Use whole milk for the creamiest sauce, but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
For extra flavor, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cauliflower mac and cheese, low carb mac and cheese, creamy cheese casserole, baked cauliflower, comfort food, cheesy cauliflower bake