A comforting, low-carb twist on the classic that’s perfect for keto dieters
KEY INFO
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty: Moderate
Diet: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
– Large skillet or cast iron pan
– Food processor
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Basic kitchen tools (knife, cutting board, measuring cups)
Alternative: Instant Pot can replace skillet for faster cooking
INGREDIENTS
For the Cauliflower Mash
– 2 large heads cauliflower (about 2 lbs/900g)
– 4 tbsp (60g) butter
– 3/4 cup (180g) sour cream
– 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meat Filling
– 2 lbs (900g) ground lamb or beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 cup (240ml) beef stock
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (sugar-free)
– 1 tsp each: rosemary, thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
METHOD
1. Prepare Cauliflower
– Cut cauliflower into florets
– Steam until fork-tender (8-10 minutes)
– Drain THOROUGHLY (crucial for avoiding watery mash)
2. Make the Mash
– Process cauliflower with butter and sour cream until smooth
– Add Parmesan and seasonings
– Keep warm
3. Prepare Filling
– Brown meat in skillet over medium-high heat
– Add onions, celery, garlic until softened
– Stir in tomato paste, stock, and seasonings
– Simmer until thickened (10-15 minutes)
4. Assemble and Bake
– Transfer meat to baking dish
– Top with cauliflower mash
– Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 20 minutes
– Broil for 5 minutes until golden
CRUCIAL TIPS
– Drain cauliflower extremely well to prevent soggy mash
– Let meat mixture reduce properly for best texture
– Rest for 15 minutes before serving
– Visual cue: Top should be golden brown with slightly crispy edges
Storage & Reheating
– Refrigerate up to 4 days
– Freeze up to 3 months
– Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout
Common Mistakes
– Skipping the draining step for cauliflower
– Not reducing the meat mixture enough
– Rushing the final broiling step
Variations
– Swap lamb for beef (becomes Cottage Pie)
– Add low-carb vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms
– Use different cheese combinations
Net carbs per serving: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
