Keto Chili Mac Skillet Recipe — Low-Carb Comfort Meal

Fork-tender cauliflower florets smothered in a cheesy chili sauce—this keto chili mac delivers the comfort of pasta without the carbs. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s an easy weeknight meal the whole family will enjoy.

Keto Chili Mac

This dish blends two classic favorites—chili and macaroni and cheese—into one satisfying, low-carb skillet. A rich, creamy cheese sauce pairs beautifully with the savory, spiced chili for a comforting meal that feels indulgent while staying keto-friendly.

Instead of pasta, this recipe uses cauliflower florets. Cauliflower adds texture and nutrition while keeping carbs low, making it a great base for the cheesy sauce and chili.

Cheesy Cauliflower Skillet

This is a complete, one-skillet meal. Ground beef provides a rich, meaty base, but you can substitute ground sausage, chicken, or turkey—just increase the chili seasoning slightly if using poultry for more flavor.

For the cheese sauce I used shredded cheddar and heavy whipping cream. If you want a spicier kick, swap in pepper jack or add a pinch of cayenne.

What To Serve With Chili

This skillet is filling on its own, but it pairs well with keto bread substitutes to round out the meal. Cheesy cauliflower breadsticks or an easy skillet “cornbread” made without cornmeal are excellent choices. Simple roasted or air-fried vegetable sides also work well to add extra nutrients.

Kids and adults alike enjoy pairing this chili with fritters or scalloped turnips for added variety.

Spicy Cauliflower Recipe

This version includes jalapeño for a touch of heat. To increase the spice, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes. If you prefer milder flavors, simply omit or reduce the jalapeño.

Cauliflower Chili Mac

Keto chili mac stores well for meal prep. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in resealable, freezer-safe bags for up to six months.

Keto Chili Mac Skillet Recipe

Below are the essentials to prepare this keto chili mac. Exact measurements and printable instructions are provided in the recipe card section.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 5
Net Carbs: 7 net carbs per serving

Ingredients:

For the chili:

Ground beef
Onion, chopped
Red bell pepper, chopped
Green bell pepper, chopped
Jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
Minced garlic
Tomato paste
Roma tomatoes, chopped
Beef broth
Chili powder
Cumin
Salt and pepper

For the mac and cheese:

Cauliflower florets, cooked to a crispy-tender texture
Butter
Minced garlic
Heavy whipping cream
Shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

Add the ground beef, onion and bell peppers to a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté until the meat is browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain excess grease and reduce heat to medium.

Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, jalapeño, chopped tomatoes, and salt and pepper to taste. Sauté for 2 minutes.

Pour in the beef broth and simmer until about half the liquid has reduced.

In a separate pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the heavy whipping cream and simmer until slightly thickened. Whisk in the shredded cheddar until smooth and fully melted to form the cheese sauce.

Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked cauliflower in a mixing bowl and toss to coat evenly. Add the cheesy cauliflower to the chili skillet and stir to combine. Serve hot.

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Keto Cauliflower Recipes

If you like this cauliflower chili mac, try other keto cauliflower dishes for more variety and flavor.

• Keto Chimichurri Chicken Broccoli and Cauliflower Skillet
• Keto Cauliflower Cranberry Walnut Salad
• Low-Carb Buffalo Cauliflower Hummus
• Keto Cauliflower Au Gratin
• Low-Carb Cauliflower and Pumpkin Mash