Keto Low-Carb Cauliflower Steaks Recipe
Looking for a delicious low-carb alternative to baked potatoes? Look no further! This Keto Cauliflower Steak recipe is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect side dish or even a main course. Featuring crispy edges, a cheesy topping, and delicious garnishes, these cauliflower steaks are sure to impress. Follow this detailed guide for a comprehensive step-by-step approach, nutritional information, and tips to create the perfect dish.
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Steaks
1 large head of cauliflower
2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for better flavor)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh, finely chopped if available)
For the Topping
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
1/2 cup crumbled bacon (cooked until crispy)
1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat for best flavor)
Equipment Needed
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
Sharp knife
Basting brush
Oven
Large mixing bowl
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior on your cauliflower steaks.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
Take a large head of cauliflower and remove the outer leaves. Rinse it under cold water to clean it. Pat it dry with a kitchen towel.
Step 3: Slice the Cauliflower
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the cauliflower into thick steaks, approximately 1-inch thick. You should aim for about 4-6 steaks, depending on the size of your cauliflower head. Keep any florets that fall off for roasting or other recipes.
Step 4: Season the Steaks
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Step 5: Brush the Cauliflower
Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (if using). Brush each steak generously with the olive oil seasoning mixture using a basting brush. Make sure to coat both sides for maximum flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Cauliflower
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cauliflower steaks for 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This ensures even cooking and helps develop a nice golden-brown color.
Step 7: Add Butter and Cheese
After the initial baking time, remove the cauliflower steaks from the oven. Brush each steak with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter for added richness. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of each steak.
Step 8: Broil for Perfection
Return the baking sheet to the oven and switch the setting to broil. Broil the cauliflower steaks for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during this step to prevent burning.
Step 9: Add Bacon and Sour Cream
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of crumbled bacon over the top of each steak. Finally, add a dollop of 1/2 cup of sour cream on top of each steak for a creamy finish.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the cauliflower steaks and garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious, low-carb alternative to baked potatoes!
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 290
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 3g
Net Carbs: 4g
Protein: 12g
SmartPoints: 7 points per serving (may vary based on specific ingredients used)
Tips for Making the Best Cauliflower Steaks
Select a Fresh Cauliflower: Choose a firm, heavy head of cauliflower with tightly packed florets. Avoid any that have brown spots or blemishes.
Thickness Matters: Aim for 1-inch thick steaks to ensure they hold together during cooking. Thinner slices may fall apart or become too crispy.
Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning! The flavor of the cauliflower is subtle, so robust seasoning is essential to elevate the dish.
Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Gruyère, pepper jack, or even feta can add unique flavors to the dish.
Bacon Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, consider turkey bacon or leave out the bacon altogether for a vegetarian version.
Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prepping. The steaks can be baked in advance and reheated as needed throughout the week.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Keto Low-Carb Cauliflower Steak recipe offers a delicious, satisfying alternative to traditional baked potatoes. Bursting with flavor from the olive oil, garlic, and cheese, it’s a dish that everyone will love—keto dieters and non-dieters alike. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also provides a healthy dose of vegetables and can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy these cauliflower steaks as a side dish or make them the star of your next meal!