1 (20oz) bag frozen cauliflower rice (or 4-5 cups)
1 tbsp butter
1/4 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 oz cream cheese (about 4 tbsps)
Salt, pepper, and garlic to taste
Directions:
Microwave the cauliflower rice according to the package directions, only shave off a few minutes of cook time since you will be further cooking it in a pan.
Meanwhile, melt about 1 tbsp of butter in a sauté pan on your stove set to medium heat.
Add the mostly cooked cauliflower rice to the pan and stir it all up with the butter, tossing it for a few minutes. Season the rice to your taste (I use about 1/2 tsp of garlic powder and a little salt and pepper).
Add the milk, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese to the pan and lower the heat to medium-low; mix everything together until it’s melted and well incorporated.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Cauliflower Rice
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and low-carb side dish. The creaminess from the cream cheese and the cheesiness from the cheddar really elevate the cauliflower rice. It’s a fantastic option for those who follow a ketogenic diet or simply want to incorporate more vegetables into their meals. If you’re on the lookout for other tasty low-carb options, consider trying easy cucumber appetizer boats as a complement.
Nutritional Benefits
Cauliflower is known for being low in calories yet high in fiber, making it a great choice for weight management. Additionally, it is rich in vitamins C and K. The addition of cheese provides a good source of calcium, while cream cheese adds a nice richness. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
What to Serve With Easy Cheesy Cauliflower Rice
This cheesy cauliflower rice pairs beautifully with various main dishes, such as grilled chicken, beef stir-fry, or even spicy sausage. If you’re looking for a complete meal, the cheesy kielbasa rice and broccoli skillet is a great option to try out as well.
How to Store Easy Cheesy Cauliflower Rice
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. Freezing is also an option; however, the texture may slightly change upon thawing.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower: Since the cauliflower rice is microwave-cooked earlier, be careful not to overcook it in the pan. Otherwise, it can become mushy.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic to your preference. A great tip is to play around with herbs and spices for extra flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients: If possible, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged as it melts better.
Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can add cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or even some cooked broccoli to elevate the flavor and nutrition. For more veggie options, consider combining this dish with black beans and yellow rice for added texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of frozen?
Yes, if using fresh cauliflower, you can process it into rice-sized pieces using a food processor. Just ensure it’s cooked properly before following the recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and can be made ahead of time, just remember to reheat gently.
Can I substitute the cheese?
Sure! You can try using other cheeses like mozzarella or even a dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance.
By incorporating these tips, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s not only easy to make but also satisfying and healthy! Enjoy your creamy, cheesy cauliflower rice today!
A delicious low-carb side dish featuring creamy cream cheese and cheesy cheddar.
Ingredients
Scale
1 (20oz) bag frozen cauliflower rice (or 4–5 cups)
1 tbsp butter
1/4 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 oz cream cheese (about 4 tbsps)
Salt, pepper, and garlic to taste
Instructions
Microwave the cauliflower rice according to the package directions, shaving off a few minutes since it will be further cooked in a pan.
Melt about 1 tbsp of butter in a sauté pan on medium heat.
Add the mostly cooked cauliflower rice to the pan and stir with the butter, seasoning to taste with about 1/2 tsp of garlic powder and a little salt and pepper.
Combine the milk, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese in the pan and lower the heat to medium-low; mix everything until melted and well incorporated.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For a creamier texture when reheating, add a splash of milk.