Prepare to revolutionize your low-carb dining experience with the ultimate comfort food that'll make you forget you're even on a diet! Our Keto Cauliflower Au Gratin is the creamy, cheesy dream that transforms the humble cauliflower into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have even the most dedicated carb-lovers begging for seconds. If you're craving a side dish that's both indulgent and guilt-free, you've just hit the culinary jackpot!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Keto
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and cut it into uniform bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the cauliflower florets for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still firm. Immediately drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Pat the cauliflower florets dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Arrange the blanched cauliflower florets in the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
- Pour the cream and cheese mixture evenly over the cauliflower, ensuring all florets are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top of the cauliflower.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the cauliflower is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
- Serve hot as a delicious low-carb side dish, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of a perfect au gratin - make sure to thoroughly pat your cauliflower dry after blanching to prevent a watery dish.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or some crispy bacon bits to the cheese mixture.
- Use fresh, high-quality cheeses for the most robust flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- If you want a crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Let the dish rest for exactly 5 minutes after baking - this helps the sauce set and makes serving much easier.
- For meal prep, this dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked just before serving.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the cream and cheese mixture before pouring over the cauliflower for a more uniform consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 90mg
