Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

This Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Tender cauliflower florets are smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s simple to make and sure to please both vegetable lovers and cheese fans alike.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until smooth.
4. Step 4: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
5. Step 5: Add the cauliflower to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
7. Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
8. Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For added texture, mix in some cooked bacon or chopped green onions before baking.
• Use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• To make it lighter, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk.
• If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, usually about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the casserole’s texture creamy and smooth.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works well. Just thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Is this casserole suitable for low-carb diets?

Absolutely. Cauliflower is low in carbs, and this cheesy casserole makes a great low-carb, keto-friendly side dish.

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 90 reviews

This Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender cauliflower florets baked in a rich blend of cheddar, Parmesan, cream cheese, and aromatic spices. It’s a comforting side that balances cheesy indulgence with the goodness of cauliflower, perfect for family dinners or holiday meals.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

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Vegetables

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

Dairy & Cheese

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

Seasonings

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Cook Cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets for 5-7 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain well to remove excess water and set aside.
3. Mix Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Stir until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture.
4. Add Cheeses: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture, ensuring they blend well.
5. Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Mix: Add the cooked cauliflower to the cheese mixture and stir gently to coat each floret thoroughly with the cheesy sauce.
6. Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly, then transfer the cauliflower and cheese mixture into it. Spread evenly and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese topping turns golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as a savory side dish.

Notes

• To reduce cooking time, you can use cauliflower rice, but adjust steaming time accordingly.
• The paprika is optional but adds a subtle smoky flavor and color.
• Make sure to drain the cauliflower thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though cheese flavor will be less rich.
• This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Keywords: Cauliflower casserole, cheesy cauliflower, baked cauliflower, side dish, comfort food, low carb casserole