Easy & Delicious Cauliflower Pastelón
Cauliflower Pastelón is a low-carb, cheesy casserole packed with seasoned beef and creamy mash. A keto-friendly comfort food perfect for meal prep!
Ingredients
- Beef Filling:
2 lb ground beef
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
½ cup onion, chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sofrito (optional)
1 cup whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
1 teaspoon adobo seasoning
1 ½ teaspoons sazón seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
- Cauliflower Mash:
2 large heads cauliflower, cut into florets
5 egg yolks
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Pinch of black pepper
- Toppings:
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Beef Filling:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in bell pepper, sofrito, and seasonings. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Mix in crushed tomatoes and simmer until thickened. Set aside.
- Prepare Cauliflower Mash:
Steam cauliflower until very tender (20–30 minutes). Drain completely to remove excess water.
- Blend Mash:
Add butter, heavy cream, parmesan, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Let cool slightly, then mix in egg yolks.
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Assemble Layers:
Spread half cauliflower mash
Add layer of cheese
Spread beef filling
Add more cheese
Top with remaining cauliflower mash
Finish with remaining cheese
- Bake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbly. Broil 2–3 minutes for golden top.
- Rest & Serve:
Let rest for 30 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
Drain cauliflower thoroughly to avoid watery texture
Use full-fat dairy for best keto flavor and macros
Resting time is essential for clean slices
Add olives or spices for authentic flavor variation
Can substitute beef with turkey or chicken