Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or a main meal. This recipe features tender cauliflower florets baked in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb crust or additional melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with spices, herbs, or add-ins like bacon or broccoli. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this casserole is a flavorful way to enjoy a classic vegetable.
Ingredients:
2 large heads of cauliflower, cut into small florets
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup half-and-half cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (save some for topping)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
5 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare cauliflower:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
Prepare the sauce:
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the softened cream cheese and half-and-half. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add cheese and seasonings:
Stir in the shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine cauliflower and sauce:
Place the cooked cauliflower florets in a large baking dish. Pour the cheesy sauce over the cauliflower and mix until evenly coated.
Top with bacon:
Sprinkle the chopped crispy bacon over the top of the casserole. Add some extra shredded mozzarella on top for a cheesy finish.
Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Size:
Typically serves 4-6 as a side dish or 2-3 as a main course.
Tips & Tricks:
Blanch the Cauliflower: For a perfectly tender texture, blanch the cauliflower for 3-4 minutes before baking. This helps ensure it cooks evenly.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for added flavor.
Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or ground turkey to make it a complete meal.
Crunchy Topping: Add a layer of seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with butter for a crispy topping.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve as part of a holiday spread alongside mashed potatoes and stuffing.
This dish is a delicious way to make cauliflower the star of your meal!
Enjoy this creamy and cheesy cauliflower casserole as a delicious side dish!