Classic-Swap Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Bake

Serves 6 · 15 min prep · 30 min cook

Ingredients

• 2 large heads (about 8 cups) cauliflower florets
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
• 1.25 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds or almond flour (optional topping)
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

1. 1Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook 5 to 6 minutes until just fork-tender but still holding shape. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with towels to remove excess moisture.
2. 2While the cauliflower cooks, melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and heavy cream, whisking until the cream cheese melts into a smooth base, about 2 minutes.
3. 3Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking over medium-low heat until the sauce is silky and lightly bubbling.
4. 4Remove the skillet from heat and gradually fold in most of the shredded cheddar and all the Parmesan until melted and stretchy. Reserve cheddar for the top.
5. 5Add the drained cauliflower to the cheese sauce and gently fold until every floret is coated in the rich mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. 6Smooth the top, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and the optional crushed pork rinds or almond flour evenly over the surface for a golden crust.
7. 7Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (or pour into a greased 9x13 baking dish) and bake 18 to 22 minutes until the edges are bubbling and the top is deeply golden and crisp in spots.
8. 8Remove from the oven and let rest 5 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. Scatter fresh chives over the top.
9. 9Scoop generous portions onto plates. The cauliflower stands in for pasta while delivering the same comforting cheese-pull everyone expects from classic mac.
10. 10Leftovers reheat well covered at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the microwave; perfect for keto-friendly comfort dinners all week.