Keto Comfort Cauliflower or Shirataki Mac Cheese

Keto Mac and Cheese Low Creamy Cauliflower or Shirataki

By SandraAugust 20, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction: Keto Mac and Cheese Low is Calling Your Name!

Fancy some keto comfort food ? Oh my gosh, do I have a treat for you! This Keto Mac and Cheese Low recipe is about to become your new best mate.

Seriously, who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This version gives you all the cheesy goodness without the carb guilt.

A Classic Reimagined: Keto Mac and Cheese Magic

Mac and cheese, a staple of American cuisine, has been loved for generations. We're giving it a keto makeover. It’s an easy keto mac and cheese recipe that anyone can whip up.

This recipe serves 4 and takes only 25 minutes. How about that for a quick keto recipe ?

Health Benefits and Perfect Occasions

This healthy mac and cheese alternative is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a guilt free indulgence. This is the perfect keto side dish recipe for a cosy night in or a potluck with mates.

What makes it special? Its simplicity and how it delivers on that creamy keto mac and cheese taste.

Ready to dive into the ingredients?

Ingredients & Equipment: The Keto Mac & Cheese Low Down

Alright, so you wanna whip up some Keto Mac and Cheese Low , eh? Don't worry, it's easier than falling off a log! Here's the lowdown on what you'll need.

Honestly, it's mostly stuff you probably already have.

Main Players: The Ingredient Rundown

First, let's talk ingredients for this low carb mac and cheese recipe . We're keeping it simple, folks.

Cauliflower or Shirataki: 2 cups (about 200g ) of cauliflower florets or 2 packages (also about 200g ) of shirataki noodles.
Now, for the cauliflower, you want it to be firm. Shirataki? Just make sure they aren't slimy. If you are making the cauliflower mac and cheese keto , fresh cauliflower is key!
Butter: 2 tablespoons ( 30g ) of unsalted butter. Because who doesn't love butter?
Cream Cheese: ½ cup ( 113g ) of cream cheese, softened. Get the full fat stuff, trust me. It makes the cheese sauce keto so much better!
Heavy Cream: ½ cup ( 120ml ). Again, full fat is the way to go for that creamy keto mac and cheese .
Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (optional, but highly recommended!). Adds a little oomph .
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon . Because garlic makes everything better.
Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon . It's like garlic's slightly mellower cousin.
Salt & Pepper: To taste. Don't be shy!
Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup ( 113g ) shredded sharp cheddar. Good cheddar is non-negotiable. If you are looking for a keto recipe with cheddar cheese , this is it!.
Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup ( 57g ) shredded mozzarella. For extra gooeyness.
Parmesan (Optional): ¼ cup ( 28g ) grated. For a little extra something something.
Fresh Herbs (Optional): 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley or chives. Makes it look fancy.

Spice Rack Secrets: Seasoning Like a Pro

For that authentic mac and cheese flavor, you gotta nail the seasoning. We're talking garlic and onion powder, obviously. But don't underestimate the power of good ol' salt and pepper.

A touch of Dijon mustard? Chef's kiss! If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.

Play around with the flavor enhancers and aromatics to find what you enjoy most.

If you are missing some of those spice, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of italian seasoning, or simply omit them.

Kit Essentials: Gear Up for Keto Mac!

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. You don't need a whole fancy kitchen to make this easy keto mac and cheese .

These are the tools to get the job done right, think of them as your Mac & Cheese Allies.

Medium Saucepan: For making that glorious cheese sauce.
Steamer Basket (if using cauliflower): Or just a regular pot for boiling. Your choice!
Colander (if using shirataki noodles): To drain those slippery noodles.
Whisk: For a smooth, lump free sauce. A fork will work in a pinch.
9x13 inch Baking Dish (optional): For broiling. But honestly, you can just eat it straight from the saucepan. I won't judge.

That's all she wrote! With these ingredients and tools, you're ready to create some keto comfort food . Let's get cooking!

Cooking Method: Nailing Your Keto Mac and Cheese Low

So, you're craving proper keto comfort food ? Honestly, who isn't? Let's tackle the cornerstone of cauliflower mac and cheese keto that cheesy, gooey goodness that makes it all worthwhile.

This isn't just any low carb mac and cheese recipe ; this is how you get that creamy keto mac and cheese texture that dreams are made of.

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

First things first: the essential mise en place . Get everything prepped before you start. Chop your 2 cups (200g) of cauliflower florets (or rinse those shirataki noodles mac and cheese ).

Soften your ½ cup (113g) cream cheese. Shred your cheeses! This is how you save time and avoid any oh my gosh moments mid-cook.

Safety wise, be careful when steaming or boiling your cauliflower. Hot steam is no joke!

step-by-step: From Start to Finish

Prep the cauliflower or noodles: Steam or boil cauliflower till fork tender, about 5- 7 minutes . Or rinse and drain those shirataki noodles super well.
Melt the butter: Melt 2 tablespoons (30g) of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add cream cheese: Stir in ½ cup (113g) cream cheese until melted and smooth.
Whisk in cream: Add ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream until smooth.
Season: Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon (if using), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cheese time: Add 1 cup (113g) cheddar and ½ cup (57g) mozzarella, stirring until melted. Taste and adjust.
Combine! Add the cauliflower or noodles to the cheese sauce. Coat it all evenly.
(Optional) Broil: Top with ¼ cup (28g) Parmesan and broil for 2- 3 minutes , till golden. Watch it like a hawk so it doesn't burn!

Pro Tips: Elevating Your Keto Mac and Cheese

Here's the secret sauce: drain your cauliflower or noodles thoroughly . This is the best keto mac and cheese tip. Trust me.

A watery cheese sauce keto is a sad cheese sauce. Also, melt that cheese slowly over medium low heat. Nobody wants burnt cheese! You can totally make the cheese sauce ahead of time.

Just reheat it gently when you're ready to serve.

Enjoy this healthy mac and cheese alternative, its one of those quick keto recipes that will save you when looking for low carb dinner ideas and still keeps you going on a keto recipe with cheddar cheese .

This is going to become one of your keto side dish recipes .

Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Keto Mac & Cheese Low Game!

Right, so you're ready to dive into this Keto Mac and Cheese Low adventure. Ace! But before you get elbows deep in cheese, let’s chat about some bits and bobs that'll take your easy keto mac and cheese to the next level.

Honestly, it's all about those extra touches, innit?

Serving Suggestions: Make it Look Proper Lush

Okay, so you've got this glorious bowl of creamy keto mac and cheese . Don't just plonk it on the table! A little bit of plating goes a long way.

Plating Power: Think rustic charm. Serve it in a cute little ramekin. Maybe sprinkle some extra cheese on top. A sprig of fresh parsley? Fancy!
Sidekicks: This keto comfort food goes brilliantly with a side salad. A crisp, green salad cuts through the richness. Or, for a hearty meal, try it with grilled chicken or sausages proper pub grub vibes. Don’t forget a refreshing drink an ice-cold sparkling water with lemon works a treat!

Storage Tips: Keep That Cheesiness Going

So, you've made a massive batch of this best keto mac and cheese , and you've got leftovers. Lucky you! Here's how to keep it scrummy:

Refrigeration Rules: Pop any leftovers in an airtight container. Into the fridge it goes! It'll be good for about 3-4 days.
Freezing Frenzy: Yep, you can freeze it! But, honestly, the texture might change a bit. It can get a tad grainy. Still tasty though! Use a freezer safe container and it should last for up to 2 months.
Reheating Routine: Reheating is easy. Microwave it. Or warm it gently in a saucepan with a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. Stir to prevent sticking.

Variations: Get Your Chef On!

Fancy getting creative? This low carb mac and cheese recipe is ripe for experimentation.

Veggie Power: Want to be healthy mac and cheese alternative ? Chuck in some steamed broccoli or spinach. Extra nutrients, sorted.
Spice it Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper in the cheese sauce keto gives it a cheeky kick.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl

Alright, let's get real for a sec. This isn't your nan's mac and cheese.

Simplified Stats: Think lower carbs, higher fats. It’s roughly 350 calories per serving. Packed with protein, thanks to all that cheese!
Health Perks: It’s a fantastic keto side dish recipe or a low carb dinner ideas . It keeps you feeling full and satisfied. Perfect for those quick keto recipes ! Plus, all that cheese is a good source of calcium.

Honestly? This Keto Mac and Cheese Low recipe is a winner. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy! You got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Keto Mac and Cheese Low recipe ahead of time?

You certainly can! Assemble the Keto Mac and Cheese Low, but hold off on the optional Parmesan topping and broiling. Store it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, sprinkle with Parmesan and broil until golden and bubbly.

Just be aware that the texture of the cauliflower or shirataki may change slightly upon reheating.

Help! My cheese sauce is grainy. What did I do wrong?

Oh dear, a grainy cheese sauce is a right pain! This usually happens when the cheese is melted over too high heat, causing the proteins to seize up. Make sure you are using medium low heat and stir constantly. If it happens again, try whisking in a tablespoon of lemon juice.

The acidity can sometimes help smooth things out. Next time, add a pinch of cornstarch to the cheese before melting, this can help prevent separation.

I'm not a fan of cauliflower. Can I use something else in this Keto Mac and Cheese Low recipe?

Absolutely! Shirataki noodles (also known as konjac noodles) are a great low-carb alternative. Just make sure to rinse them really well and dry them thoroughly nobody wants watery mac and cheese! You could also try broccoli florets for a slightly different flavour and texture.

Even zucchini noodles could work, just make sure to cook them so they don't make the sauce too watery.

How do I store leftover Keto Mac and Cheese Low?

Store any leftover Keto Mac and Cheese Low in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. You might need to add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken upon cooling.

Is Keto Mac and Cheese Low suitable for people with dairy sensitivities?

Unfortunately, this particular recipe relies heavily on dairy, so it wouldn't be suitable in its current form. However, you could experiment with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and plant based shredded cheeses, but be aware that the flavour and texture will be quite different.

Always check the labels of any substitutes to ensure they are keto friendly and low in carbs.

Can I add any protein to this Keto Mac and Cheese Low recipe?

You bet! Adding some protein is a fantastic way to make it a more substantial meal. Cooked and crumbled bacon is always a winner, or you could try shredded chicken, diced ham, or even cooked shrimp. For a vegetarian option, consider adding some sauteed mushrooms or tofu for a bit of extra substance.