Keto Smoked Gouda & Bacon Cauliflower Mac Recipe
This Keto Smoked Gouda & Bacon Cauliflower Mac is the perfect low-carb comfort food! Made with tender cauliflower, crispy bacon, and a rich, smoky cheese sauce, it’s packed with flavor and so satisfying. Whether you’re on the keto diet or just want a cheesy, delicious meal, this is a must-try.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Baking (Optional)
- Cuisine: American, Keto, Low-Carb
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cauliflower “Mac”
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Cheese Sauce
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For Topping (Optional)
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup pork rinds, crushed
Instructions
- Prep the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into small, bite-sized pieces. Boil in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain well and pat dry.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Let it cool, then crumble into small pieces.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream. Stir in cream cheese until melted. Gradually add shredded smoked gouda and cheddar, stirring constantly. Add Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Stir until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Return the drained cauliflower to the pot. Pour in the cheese sauce and mix well. Stir in crumbled bacon.
- Bake (Optional): If you like a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and crushed pork rinds, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, stir in a little extra cheddar before serving.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of heavy cream.
- Want it spicy? Add extra cayenne or diced jalapeños.
Please note: The recipe or ingredients shown in the video might vary slightly from what’s listed here. Use the video as an illustration, but for the best results, you might want to stick to the recipe provided in this article.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 Sugar: 3g Sodium: 760mg Fat: 42g Saturated Fat: 22g Unsaturated Fat: 16g Trans Fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 8g Fiber: 3g Protein: 18g Cholesterol: 115mg