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Keto Turkey Cauliflower Mac & Cheese Bake - Cozy, Low-Carb Comfort

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head of cauliflower (or two small), cut into small florets
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional but great)
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
  • 1/2–1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Cut the cauliflower into small, bite-size florets for the best “mac” feel.
  2. Roast the cauliflower: Toss florets with 1 tbsp oil, a big pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread on a sheet pan and roast 18–22 minutes, until tender with lightly browned edges. Set aside.
  3. Brown the turkey: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add ground turkey, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through, 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic for the last minute. Transfer to a bowl.
  4. Make the cheese sauce base: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in heavy cream, Dijon, onion powder, and nutmeg. Simmer gently 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Add the creamy elements: Reduce heat to low. Whisk in cream cheese until fully smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups cheddar, 0.5 cup mozzarella, and 1/4 cup Parmesan until melted and velvety. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. The sauce should be thick but pourable.
  6. Combine: In a large bowl, mix roasted cauliflower and cooked turkey. Pour the cheese sauce over and toss to coat evenly.
  7. Assemble the bake: Spread the mixture in the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a golden, cheesy crust.
  8. Bake: Lower the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 15–20 minutes, until bubbling at the edges and the top is melted and lightly browned.
  9. Finish and serve: Let rest 5–10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm.