Creamy Baked Mac And Cheese
This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a delightful low-carb twist on the classic comfort food. Made with tender cauliflower instead of pasta, it’s a great option for anyone looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor.
The creamy combination of heavy cream, cream cheese, and melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses makes for a rich, comforting dish.
Perfect for those cozy nights when you want something indulgent yet lighter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love this Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese because it offers the indulgence of classic mac and cheese while being a low-carb alternative.
The cauliflower provides a satisfying bite, and the rich, creamy cheese sauce is absolutely delicious.
It’s a comforting dish that’s both flavorful and healthier, making it the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the classic taste of mac and cheese without the extra carbs.
Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion!
Key Ingredients:
Cauliflower: Chopped into macaroni-sized pieces for a low-carb substitute.
Heavy cream and cream cheese: Create a rich and creamy base for the sauce.
Cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese: Offer a smooth, cheesy texture and delicious flavor.
Ground mustard, salt, and cracked pepper: Add depth and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Creamy Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
16 ounces cauliflower, chopped into macaroni-sized pieces
¼ cup heavy cream
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/3 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
½ teaspoon ground mustard
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cracked pepper
Instructions
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the chopped cauliflower and cook for about 5 minutes.
Drain the cauliflower and return it to the pot, setting the heat to low.
Add the heavy cream, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, ground mustard, salt, and cracked pepper. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is smooth, which should take about 3 minutes.
Serve immediately for a delicious, creamy side dish!
Notes:
Cauliflower as a substitute: This recipe uses cauliflower in place of traditional pasta, making it a great low-carb or gluten-free alternative.
Cheese options: You can mix and match cheeses to suit your preference, but a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack works well for a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Cooking cauliflower: Be careful not to overcook the cauliflower, as it can become too soft and lose its texture. It should remain slightly firm after boiling.
Texture adjustments: If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a little extra heavy cream or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Serving suggestion: This dish can be served as a main or a side, and it pairs perfectly with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information:
SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 200 | Protein: 8g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Carbohydrates: 9g | Fiber: 3g | Sugars: 3g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 350mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use regular pasta instead of cauliflower?
Yes, you can substitute cauliflower with traditional macaroni pasta if you prefer.
Just cook the pasta according to package instructions before mixing with the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for people on a keto or low-carb diet?
Yes, cauliflower is an excellent low-carb substitute for pasta, making this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, you can swap the heavy cream and cream cheese for non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
Use dairy-free cheese for the grated cheese.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling it and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake.
Simply reheat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F.
Can I add other seasonings or ingredients to the sauce?
Absolutely! You can add extra seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
Feel free to mix in cooked chicken, bacon, or vegetables for extra texture and taste.
How do I ensure the cauliflower is cooked properly?
Boil the cauliflower for about 5 minutes until it’s fork-tender.
Be careful not to overcook it, as cauliflower can become mushy.
After boiling, make sure to drain it well before mixing with the sauce.
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower.
Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the pot.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to make the dish spicier according to your taste.
How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?
Stir the cheese sauce continuously over low heat until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
If it seems too thick, you can add a little more cream or a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead and bake later?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
When ready to serve, bake it at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until it’s hot and bubbly.