This Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a gluten-free, keto, and low carb version of everyone’s favorite side dish – macaroni and cheese. While there is nothing quite like the classic mac and cheese, this low carb version is still absolutely delicious.

This easy recipe uses just a few simple ingredients and swaps cauliflower for the pasta. If you are looking for a grain-free or lower carb take on macaroni and cheese, I know you’ll love this recipe!

this recipe

A Low Carb Version of a Classic: Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

I will be the first person to tell you that there is nothing like real deal macaroni and cheese, but sometimes you want the comforting vibe of mac and cheese without the gluten, grains, or the work of making a classic casserole. 

This low carb version of classic macaroni and cheese is simple, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. Instead of macaroni noodles, this recipe calls for tender cauliflower florets to keep the dish entirely gluten and grain-free, as well as keto and low carb. 

Instead of a making a cheese sauce, all you need for this macaroni and cheese is shredded cheddar and just five more ingredients to whip up this simple recipe. Another thing I love about this version of macaroni and cheese is that it makes a smaller batch. This recipe gives you just the right amount for two people, plus a little leftover.

The Simple Ingredients You Need for this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

This recipe really could not be more simple or easy. All you need are a few easy to find ingredients, that when combined, make for the perfect cheesy cauliflower dish. 

Cauliflower: the obvious ingredient! All you need is one head of cauliflower cut into small to medium florets. 

Salt: this recipe calls for a full tablespoon of salt that you’ll use to season the water that the cauliflower cooks in. It may seem like a lot, but you won’t add any salt to the actual dish, so be sure to use a full tablespoon of salt in the water. 

Cheese: for the ultimate flavor and color, this recipe uses a combination of both sharp white and sharp yellow cheddar. If you don’t love sharp cheddars, feel free to use mild instead.

Sour cream: this ingredient gives the mac and cheese a creamy texture and adds a little tang. 

Green onion: it might not be typical in traditional macaroni and cheese, but the green onion in this dish really takes it to another notch and adds so much flavor. Don’t skip it!

My Favorite Tips For Making This Recipe

Cauliflower macaroni and cheese is definitely not traditional macaroni and cheese, but it’s still a delicious option.

This is a great recipe to make if you are hosting a dinner and have guests who are gluten or grain free, or following a low carb approach. Everyone will love it and you won’t compromise on flavor.

To ensure that this Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese comes out the absolute best, here are my favorite tips: 

• Be sure to let your cauliflower cook until fork tender before removing it from the water

• Drain the cauliflower well to ensure that you’re not adding extra water to the dish

• Let the mac and cheese sit and cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. Because this recipe is using cauliflower instead of pasta, expect there to be a little liquid when you cut into the casserole. Allowing the mac and cheese to sit and cool, helps to let the dish set so there’s not too much extra liquid. 

I hope you love this dish as much as we do! It is our favorite recipe to whip up when we’re craving some cheesy goodness! If you make it, can you do me a favor? Snap a picture and tag me on social media so that I can see and share! I love seeing what y’all are creating in your kitchens!