Low Carb Cauliflower “Macaroni” and Cheese
This basic cauliflower and cheese is an excellent substitute for pasta in this faux mac and cheese. It’s a great choice for low carb diets!
This low-carb cauliflower “macaroni and cheese” delivers all the creamy, cheesy comfort of the classic dish without the pasta. Tender cauliflower florets are coated in a rich cheese sauce made with cheddar, mozzarella, and a touch of mustard for depth.
It’s a great side dish for weeknights, holidays, or anytime you want a lighter option that still feels satisfying. The baked topping gives the dish a bubbly, golden finish—perfect for serving alongside chicken, pork, or roasted vegetables.
What You’ll Like About This Dish
Low-carb comfort. All the creamy, cheesy goodness without pasta.
Simple prep. Steam the cauliflower, make the sauce, and bake.
Flexible. Easy to customize with different cheeses or toppings.
Family-friendly. Mild flavors and familiar texture make it a hit even with picky eaters.
Ingredient Notes
- Cauliflower: A large head gives enough florets to mimic macaroni volume.
- Heavy cream: Creates a silky base for the cheese sauce.
- Cheddar & mozzarella: Cheddar adds sharpness; mozzarella melts smoothly.
- Ground mustard powder: Enhances the cheese flavor.
- Milk: Adjusts the sauce consistency; add gradually.
- Seasonings: Salt and black pepper balance the rich sauce.
Steps to Make Low Carb Cauliflower “Macaroni and Cheese”
- Cut the cauliflower into small, bite-size florets.
- Steam the cauliflower until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Heat the cream in a saucepan and melt in the cheeses with the garlic and mustard powder.
- Add milk as needed to thin the sauce.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the steamed cauliflower and transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with cheddar and bake until bubbling; broil briefly for browning.
Tips
- Steam the cauliflower just until tender to prevent a mushy texture.
- Shred your own cheese for the smoothest melting—bagged shreds contain anti-caking agents.
- Add milk slowly so the sauce stays thick and creamy.
- Broil briefly and watch closely so the top browns without burning.
Recipe Variations
- Make it smoky. Add smoked paprika or a handful of smoked Gouda.
- Boost the protein. Stir in cooked bacon, rotisserie chicken, or ham cubes.
- Add vegetables. Fold in sautéed spinach, broccoli florets, or roasted peppers.
- Give it crunch. Top with crushed pork rinds or seasoned almond flour before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted chicken, pork chops, or grilled steak.
- Pair with a big salad for a lower-carb meal.
- Add it to a holiday table as a lighter mac and cheese option.
- Choose it for meal prep—it reheats beautifully.
How to Store
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in a 325°F oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Freezing: Not recommended, as cauliflower can become watery and the sauce may separate.
Low Carb Cauliflower “Macaroni and Cheese”
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower, about 2 pounds
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 4 ounces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, sharp, 4 ounces, plus more for topping
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard powder
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup milk
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
- Place a steaming basket in a large saucepan and add about an inch of water. Add the cauliflower and bring the water to a boil. Cover and cook for about 6 to 9 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat the cream in another saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the cheese, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Stir until cheese has melted. Add 1/2 cup of milk. Add more milk, as needed.
- Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- Combine the sauce with the cauliflower; transfer to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle some cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until bubbly.
- Sprinkle with some cheddar cheese. Broil until the cheese has browned.
Nutrition
Disclaimer:
Our nutritional information is based on a third-party application that analyzes the ingredients list to determine the values. The information is meant to be helpful, but should be considered an estimate. Values may differ depending on measurements, brands, serving variations, and database availability.
