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Creamy Keto Cauliflower Au Gratin

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This creamy keto cauliflower au gratin is a comforting, cheesy side dish that’s perfect for Friendsgiving or any cozy gathering. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and crowd-pleasing, with a golden, crunchy topping and a velvety cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 small clove garlic, minced)
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds (about 1 oz) or almond flour
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for color)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets, rinse, and shake off excess water.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower and cook 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
  4. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth, about 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Add cheddar, Gruyère, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Whisk until cheese is melted and sauce is velvety (3-4 minutes). Do not let the sauce boil.
  6. Optional: Transfer cooked cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Pulse 2-3 times for chunky texture, or more for a silky finish. Alternatively, leave florets whole for a rustic gratin.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, toss cauliflower with the creamy sauce until well coated.
  8. Pour mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. In a small bowl, stir together pork rinds (or almond flour), melted butter, and parsley. Sprinkle topping evenly over the cauliflower. Add Parmesan for extra golden crunch.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. For a super-crisp top, broil for 2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
  11. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Dry cauliflower thoroughly after boiling to prevent a watery sauce. Blending the cauliflower is optional for a smoother texture. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and vegan cheese. Almond flour or extra Parmesan can replace pork rinds for the topping. Taste and adjust seasoning before baking. Reheat leftovers in the oven for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto, cauliflower, au gratin, low carb, gluten free, cheesy, Friendsgiving, Thanksgiving, comfort food, easy side dish

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/creamy-keto-cauliflower-au-gratin-recipe-easy-friendsgiving-side/