Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin With Sausage
If you love creamy comfort food but want to keep your carbs low, Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin With Sausage is the perfect dish. This hearty casserole combines tender broccoli and cauliflower with savory sausage and a rich, cheesy cream sauce baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a satisfying keto-friendly meal that works well as both a main dish and a side.
The combination of vegetables and sausage creates a balance of flavor and texture, while the creamy cheese sauce brings everything together. This recipe is simple to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for meal prep since leftovers reheat beautifully. Whether you are following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a comforting low-carb dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
Vegetables
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups cauliflower florets
Protein
12 oz smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced
Cheese Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Cook the Vegetables
Steam or boil the broccoli and cauliflower florets for about 4–5 minutes until slightly tender but still firm. Drain well and set aside.
Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced sausage for about 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Cream and Cream Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and add cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
Add the Cheeses
Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
Season the Sauce
Add salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked broccoli, cauliflower, and sausage to the cheese sauce and gently mix until everything is coated.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Add Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips
Drain vegetables well to prevent a watery casserole.
Slightly undercook the vegetables before baking so they don’t become mushy.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
Add a little mustard powder for extra depth of flavor.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of cream.
Use roasted vegetables for a deeper flavor.
Let the casserole rest after baking so it sets properly.
Choose a flavorful sausage like smoked or spicy Italian.
For extra crunch, add crushed pork rinds on top.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Variations
Chicken Version: Replace sausage with cooked chicken.
Beef Lovers: Add crispy beef pieces.
Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
Mushroom Addition: Add sautéed mushrooms.
Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic in the sauce.
Different Cheese: Use Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
Extra Creamy: Add more cream cheese.
Herb Flavor: Add thyme or parsley.
Seafood Twist: Replace sausage with shrimp.
Vegetarian: Skip sausage and add more vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and sausage are low in carbohydrates.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well first.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it earlier and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze before baking for best texture.
How do I reheat it?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warm.
What sausage works best?
Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or Italian sausage work well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You would need dairy-free cheese and cream substitutes.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms work well.
What can I serve with it?
It pairs well with a simple salad or grilled meat.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Fiber: 2 g
Net Carbs: 5 g
Conclusion
Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin With Sausage is the ultimate low-carb comfort food. With creamy cheese sauce, tender vegetables, and flavorful sausage, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to serve at gatherings. If you’re looking for a warm, cheesy keto casserole that everyone will enjoy, this recipe is sure to become a regular on your menu.