Cauliflower Croque Monsieur
A low-carb twist on the classic Croque Monsieur, featuring a crispy cauliflower crust topped with ham, a creamy Dijon-mayo spread, and melted Gruyere and mozzarella cheeses.
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Microwave-safe Bowl
- Tea Towel
- Sieve
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 pound thinly sliced ham
- 3 ounces shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- First, chop your cauliflower into small florets. Pulse them in a food processor until they resemble fine rice. If using a blender, you might add a little water, then drain thoroughly.
- Pop the riced cauliflower into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and microwave on high for 10 minutes. Careful of the steam when you uncover it!
- Once cooled slightly, transfer the cooked cauliflower into a clean tea towel placed over a sieve. Squeeze out as much liquid as you possibly can – this is key for a crispy crust!
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix the dried cauliflower with 1 cup mozzarella, eggs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Press the cauliflower mixture evenly into a flat, large rectangle (about 12x10 inches).
- Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and firm, especially around the edges.
- While the crust bakes, whisk together the Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and nutmeg in a small bowl.
- Once the crust is ready, spread this creamy mixture evenly over it.
- Layer the thinly sliced ham on top, then sprinkle generously with the Gruyere and remaining mozzarella cheeses.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, just until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. For extra crispiness and golden-brown perfection, you can broil for a minute or two, watching closely!
Notes
Nutrition per serving: Calories: 230, Total Carbs: 7.17g, Net Carbs: 4.67g, Fats: 15.23g, Protein: 15.44g.
