Keto Cauliflower Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and indulgently satisfying, Keto Cauliflower Cheese is a classic comfort food made keto-friendly. Tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce make this dish irresistible. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect as a side dish for weeknight dinners, Sunday roasts, or even holiday feasts.
This keto version of the traditional cauliflower cheese swaps flour-based sauces for a combination of cream and cheese, keeping it thick and luscious without the carbs. The result is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: chopped chives or parsley
Substitutions
- Cauliflower: Broccoli or a mix of cauliflower and broccoli works well.
- Cheese: Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for different flavors.
- Cream: Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version, and nutritional yeast can replace cheese.
- Butter: Olive oil or ghee can replace butter for a dairy-free option.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. - Cook the Cauliflower
Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender but not mushy, about 5–7 minutes. Drain well. - Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. - Add Cheeses
Remove from heat and stir in half the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until smooth. This forms a creamy sauce that will coat the cauliflower perfectly. - Combine and Transfer
Add the cooked cauliflower to the cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat each floret. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. - Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan over the top. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. - Serve Hot
Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve immediately.
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Serves: 4
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the cauliflower is drained thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheese — it melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- For a crunchy topping, mix crushed pork rinds or almond flour with a little melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roasted chicken, steak, or pork chops for a hearty meal.
- Pair with green salads or sautéed greens for extra nutrients.
- Use as a side dish for keto holiday meals, replacing mashed potatoes or traditional gratins.
- Serve in small bowls as a warm appetizer or comfort snack.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave individual portions. Avoid prolonged microwaving to maintain creamy texture.
- Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid excess water.
How can I make it extra creamy?
Add an extra 2–3 tablespoons of cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and high in fat, perfect for a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Broccoli, zucchini, or even mushrooms can be added to the casserole.
Why You’ll Love It
This Keto Cauliflower Cheese is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors without the carbs. It’s versatile, easy to make, and a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight side, a keto-friendly comfort meal, or a crowd-pleasing dish for special occasions, this casserole delivers every time. Each bite is indulgent, satisfying, and guilt-free — a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy classic comfort food the keto way.
Keto Cauliflower Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup cream cheese softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: chopped chives or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cook Cauliflower: Steam or boil florets until tender but not mushy (5–7 minutes). Drain well.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add Cheeses: Remove from heat and stir in half the cheddar and Parmesan until smooth.
- Combine and Transfer: Toss cooked cauliflower in the cheese sauce. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle remaining cheddar and Parmesan over the top. Bake 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve Hot: Garnish with chives or parsley and serve immediately.
