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4.9 from 51 votes

Jalapeño Popper Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

This Jalapeño Popper Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a creamy and delicious low carb alternative to macaroni and cheese.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
10 mins
Servings: 7
Calories: 355 kcal
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 large head cauliflower  cut into small bites
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese I use a cheddar blend
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 5 strips of uncured bacon cooked and crumbled (bacon grease reserved)
  • 3 teaspoons bacon grease melted
  • 2 Jalapeno peppers minced (see notes)
  • 2 tablespoons grass-fed butter
  • 1-2 tablespoons hot water
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Add the cauliflower florets to a microwave safe bowl with a plate (or paper plate) on top  Microwave for 7-8 minutes or until slightly tender (or your desired texture).  You can steam it instead, if you don’t have or want to use a microwave, but I wouldn't boil it, it might be too watery.
  2. While the cauliflower is cooking, heat a saucepan over medium.  Add in the butter and bacon grease, then sauté the jalapeño peppers until tender, should take just about 2-3 minutes.  Add in the cream cheese and stir until melted.  Add the remaining ingredients and still until well combined and all the cheese has melted.
  3. Add in 1-2 tablespoons of hot water if needed, to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Once the cauliflower is cooked through, you don't need to drain it or pat it dry.  The small amount of moisture will be perfect with this sauce, which as I mentioned, is on the thicker side.  Pour cauliflower in the skillet and mix well to coat each piece, then serve.
  5. Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro and/or crumbled bacon.
  6. Store leftovers in the fridge for a few days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or stovetop.

Notes

  • The amount of jalapeño pepper that you use is entirely up to you, and will depend personal preference.  I would recommend using 2  jalapeño peppers for a mild to medium level of heat and flavor.  If you're like me and love a spicy kick and a stronger jalapeño flavor, you'll want to use a bit more.  
  • If you're not sure how much to use,  you can make the sauce with just 2 jalapeño's, taste it and see how you like it.  Then, you can quickly sauté more and mix it in the sauce to give it more heat and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Calories 355kcal (18%) Carbohydrates 7g (2%) Protein 12g (24%) Fat 31g (48%) Saturated Fat 19g (95%) Fiber 2g (8%) Sugar 3g (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 7Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 355

% Daily Value*

Calories 355kcal 18%
Carbohydrates 7g 2%
Protein 12g 24%
Fat 31g 48%
Saturated Fat 19g 95%
Fiber 2g 8%
Sugar 3g 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.