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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://servedbynora.com/cheesy-cauliflower-casserole-recipe/