How to Make Cheesy Baked Cauliflower

This cheesy baked cauliflower recipe is creamy, cheesy, and slightly smoky from the paprika. The mustard adds a hint of tang, while the crispy topping gives a nice texture contrast.

Low Carb Cheesy Baked Cauliflower 🥦🧀

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min

Ingredients
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère – or a mix!)
¼ cup grated Parmesan
½ cup pork rind crumbs or almond flour (for keto) OR breadcrumbs (for a crispy top)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Steam the cauliflower:

1. Boil or steam the florets for 4-5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

Make the cheesy sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, whisking until melted and smooth.

Assemble the dish:

1. Place the cauliflower in the baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over it, tossing to coat.
2. Sprinkle with Parmesan and remaining shredded cheese.
3. Top with pork rind crumbs, almond flour, or breadcrumbs for crunch.(optional)
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

(Based on keto-friendly ingredients, using pork rind crumbs)

Calories: ~320 kcal
Protein: ~12g
Fat: ~28g
Carbs: ~6g (Net: ~4g)
Fiber: ~2g

Tips & Variations

✔️ Make it spicier 🌶️ – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
✔️ Extra crispy topping – Use crushed keto crackers or add more Parmesan.
✔️ Protein boost 🍗 – Stir in shredded chicken or crumbled bacon.
✔️ Dairy-free option 🥥 – Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.

🍗 Protein Pairings
Grilled Chicken Breast – A simple, juicy grilled or pan-seared chicken breast balances the richness of the dish.
Steak – A tender, seared ribeye or filet mignon with garlic butter complements the creamy cauliflower.
Roast Pork Tenderloin – The mild, slightly sweet flavor of pork pairs beautifully with cheesy, garlicky cauliflower.
Crispy Bacon or Pancetta – Sprinkle over the top or serve on the side for extra crunch and saltiness.
Salmon (Baked or Grilled) – The richness of salmon works well with creamy cauliflower, especially with a squeeze of lemon.
🥗 Lighter Side Dishes
Simple Green Salad 🥗 – A crisp salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds a slightly bitter contrast that balances the cheesy flavors.
Sautéed Spinach or Kale – A garlicky sautéed green works as a healthy and flavorful side.
🍞 For Non-Keto Options
Warm Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up that extra cheese sauce.
Quinoa or Rice Pilaf – A neutral grain to soak up all that creamy goodness.
🥑 Keto-Friendly Additions
Avocado Slices – Adds creaminess and healthy fats while keeping it low-carb.
Olive Tapenade – A briny, tangy contrast to the rich dish.
Cauliflower Rice – If you want a double dose of cauliflower, serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice.

This cheesy cauliflower bake is indulgent yet low-carb, making it a great keto side or comfort food favorite. Enjoy! 😋✨

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