If you are looking for a creamy, comforting side dish that fits perfectly into a low carb or keto diet, this Cheese Cauliflower Bake is your new go-to. Ready in just over 20 minutes, this air fryer recipe combines tender cauliflower florets with rich heavy cream, vibrant pesto, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s the ultimate vegetarian side dish that delivers indulgent flavor without the hassle, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Servings: 2
Ingredients
- 8.0 fluid oz (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp basil pesto
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 0.5 lemon (juice only)
- 16.0 oz (454 g) cauliflower, separated into florets
- 4.0 oz (113 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp melted ghee
- 7.0 oz (198 g) cheddar cheese, grated
Directions
- Grease a baking pan compatible with your air fryer using the 3 tbsp of melted ghee.
- Place the 16.0 oz (454 g) of cauliflower florets into the pan. Add the lemon juice, salt, pepper, 2 tbsp of pesto, and the 8.0 fluid oz (240 ml) of cream. Toss the ingredients gently to combine.
- Add the 4.0 oz (113 g) of halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle the 7.0 oz (198 g) of grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Place the pan into the air fryer and cook at 380°F (193°C) for 20 minutes.
- Divide the bake between two plates and serve immediately as a side dish.
Nutrition per Serving
200 Calories | 7.0 g Fat | 2.0 g Fiber | 7.0 g Protein
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cauliflower Bake
- Cut Uniform Florets: Ensure your cauliflower florets are cut into similar-sized pieces (about 1-inch). This ensures they cook evenly so you don’t end up with some crunchy and some mushy pieces.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded bagged cheese contains anti-caking agents (like potato starch) that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best gooey texture and lower carb count, buy a block of sharp cheddar and grate it yourself.
- Watch the Browning: Air fryers heat from the top down very intensely. If you notice the cheese browning too quickly before the 20 minutes are up, cover the pan loosely with foil (make sure the foil is weighed down and doesn’t touch the heating element) or lower the temperature to 360°F (182°C).
- Let it Rest: The cream sauce will be very bubbling and liquid when it first comes out of the fryer. Let the dish rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to cool slightly and thicken up, clinging better to the vegetables.
- Pat the Cauliflower Dry: After washing your cauliflower, pat it completely dry with paper towels. Excess water can make the cream sauce watery rather than rich and velvety.
- Check Your Pan Size: Ensure your baking pan allows for some air circulation around the edges within the fryer basket. If the fit is too tight, the hot air won’t circulate effectively to the bottom of the pan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in a regular oven instead of an air fryer? Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the dish for 25 to 30 minutes until the cauliflower is fork-tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Can I use frozen cauliflower? You can, but fresh is generally better for texture. If you must use frozen cauliflower, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible with a clean kitchen towel before mixing it with the cream. This prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the portion back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to crisp up the cheese, or simply warm it in the microwave.
Can I substitute the heavy cream? If you need a lighter option, half-and-half works, though the sauce will be thinner. for a dairy-free or paleo adaptation, you can use full-fat canned coconut milk, though this will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Can I add protein to make this a full meal? Absolutely. Cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken can be tossed in with the cauliflower before baking to add extra protein and make it a complete one-pan meal.
Is this recipe Keto-friendly? Yes, this recipe is excellent for a Keto diet. It is high in healthy fats from the heavy cream, ghee, and cheddar cheese, while keeping the net carbs very low.
