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Creamy Keto Cauliflower Au Gratin Recipe with Crispy Golden Top Made Easy

creamy keto cauliflower au gratin - featured image

A rich and satisfying low-carb cauliflower au gratin with a creamy cheese sauce and a crispy golden top, perfect for keto and comfort food lovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (200 g)
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated (50 g)
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (50 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
  2. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the florets for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still firm. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. Lower the heat and whisk in the cream cheese until smooth.
  5. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to create a silky base. Stir in Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
  7. Place the cauliflower florets evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over, gently tossing to coat evenly. Spread the mixture flat for even cooking.
  8. In a small bowl, combine the parmesan and mozzarella cheese with the remaining 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the cauliflower and cheese sauce.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil after 20 minutes.
  10. Let the gratin cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.

Notes

Pat cauliflower dry after blanching to avoid watery gratin. Use full-fat dairy for best texture and flavor. Freshly grate cheese for better melting and crispy topping. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly. Let rest before serving to thicken sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto, low-carb, cauliflower au gratin, creamy, cheesy, comfort food, keto recipe, cauliflower casserole