Keto Bacon-Wrapped Cauliflower
Crispy bacon encases tender, spiced cauliflower florets in this satisfying appetizer or side dish. Each piece is seasoned with a smoky paprika blend and coconut oil before being wrapped in peppered bacon strips. The creamy avocado dipping sauce, made with fresh lemon juice and optional Greek yogurt, provides a cool contrast to the warm, savory bites. Perfect for entertaining, game day gatherings, or as a hearty side dish that bridges comfort food with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup coconut oil or ghee, melted
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 12 slices peppered baconregular bacon1:1
milder flavor
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
- 1 lemon, freshly squeezed
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt(optional)
- ⅓ cup plain almond milk
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- 2
Mix together paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl
- 3
Stir 1 tablespoon of spice mixture into the melted coconut oil or ghee
- 4
Dip cauliflower florets into the seasoned oil and sprinkle with remaining spice mixture
- 5
Cut bacon in half and lengthwise to create strips approximately 4x1-inch
- 6
Wrap one bacon strip around each seasoned cauliflower floret and secure with a toothpick
- 7
Place wrapped cauliflower on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until cauliflower is tender and bacon browns around edges
- 8
Meanwhile, blend avocados, lemon juice, Greek yogurt and almond milk until smooth and creamy
- 9
Serve the avocado dipping sauce with slightly cooled bacon-wrapped cauliflower
Tips
Use toothpicks to secure bacon wraps and prevent them from unraveling during baking
Cut bacon strips to the right size - too long and they overlap, too short and they won't wrap properly
Let the bacon-wrapped cauliflower cool slightly before serving to avoid burns from hot bacon grease
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Store cauliflower and avocado sauce separately.
Cauliflower can be wrapped and refrigerated up to 4 hours before baking. Make sauce just before serving.
Serve warm with cool avocado dipping sauce on the side. Provide napkins as this is finger food.
Common Mistakes
Avoid overcooking the cauliflower to prevent mushy texture
Don't make avocado sauce too far ahead to prevent browning
Secure bacon wraps well to avoid unwrapping during baking
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
milder flavor
FAQ
Can I make this without the avocado sauce?
Yes, the bacon-wrapped cauliflower is delicious on its own or with other dips like ranch, aioli, or hot sauce.
What if I don't have toothpicks?
You can try tucking the bacon ends under the cauliflower or use kitchen twine, though toothpicks work best for securing.
How long will the avocado sauce keep?
The avocado sauce is best used within 2-3 hours. Add extra lemon juice and store covered to slow browning.