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Cheesy Cauliflower Rice
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Cheesy Cauliflower Rice

This Cheesy Cauliflower Rice is rich, creamy, and loaded with cheddar and Parmesan cheese for the ultimate low-carb comfort food. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's the perfect keto-friendly side dish for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cauliflower rice recipe, cheesy cauliflower rice, cheesy vegetable side, easy cauliflower recipe, keto cauliflower rice, low carb side dish
Servings: 6
Calories: 225kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 large head cauliflower about 5–6 cups florets, or 4 cups frozen cauliflower rice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese softened
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  • Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice. If using frozen cauliflower rice, thaw completely and squeeze out any excess moisture.
  • Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the cauliflower rice, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and most of the moisture has evaporated.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and evenly coats the cauliflower rice.
  • Remove from the heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired, then serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

  • Fresh cauliflower provides the best texture and flavor.
  • Remove as much moisture as possible for creamy, non-watery cauliflower rice.
  • Freshly shredded cheese melts much better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Don't overcook the cauliflower to maintain a rice-like texture.
  • Add cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or broccoli for a heartier meal.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 225 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Protein: 11 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Potassium: 420 mg
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Vitamin A: 760 IU
  • Vitamin C: 48 mg
  • Calcium: 300 mg
  • Iron: 1 mg