lil carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Per Serving:

280 calories

7g protein

3.5g net carbs

I have been making this side dish for years now... YEARS!  This cauli-mac -as I like to call it- is perfection.  It comes out magnificently every time- creamy cheese sauce and fresh cauliflower are a match made in food=heaven.  This side is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner but also a great make ahead for your Thanksgiving table!  Either way, you need this in your life- it's that good!

lil carb Cauliflower Mac and Cheese- Serves 6
1 medium size head cauliflower, cut into small bite size florets (about 4 cups)
1 cup heavy cream
3 Oz cream cheese
1 Tbsp mustard- use your favorite! (I use Whole Grain Dijon by Grey Poupon)
1 Tbsp mayonnaise
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
3 Slices American Cheese, white or yellow
1/2 Cup Cheddar Cheese + more for topping
1/4 tsp salt (adjust to your taste)
1/4 tsp pepper

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Bring a pot of water to a boil on the stove and either boil the cauliflower for 4 minutes and drain well or steam cauliflower for 4 minutes and make sure to shake excess water off.
OR you can steam the cauliflower in the microwave in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of water for 2 minutes.
Then add to an 8X8 baking pan that been lightly sprayed with cooking spray.
In a saucepan heat heavy cream then stir in the cream cheese until melted.
Add in mayo, mustard, garlic powder and salt and pepper.
Whisk until combined then stir in the american cheese until melted. Then in 2 batches add in the 1/2 cup of cheddar and whisk until it melts. Cook for another minute until the mixture is thick and velvety. Pour cheese mixture over the top of the cauliflower in the baking dish. Mix the florets with the cheese to ensure even coverage. Top with additional cheddar cheese and put into the oven.  Cook for 30 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and browned.  Remove from the oven and let sit for at least 5 minutes to cool and allow the sauce to thicken.
Then.... ENJOY!