Description
Baked Cauliflower Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish that features tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich sauce made with cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and Parmesan. Baked to golden perfection, this low-carb casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a versatile side for a variety of main dishes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
Dairy & Cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tbsp butter
Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, then steam or boil them until tender but still firm to avoid mushiness. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- Make Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring until smooth and well mixed.
- Add Cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture to incorporate rich cheesy flavor.
- Toss Cauliflower: Add the drained cauliflower to the cheese sauce and gently toss until all florets are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, then transfer the cauliflower mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese topping is melted and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- To prevent a watery casserole, ensure cauliflower is well-drained after cooking.
- For added flavor and protein, add cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, mozzarella, or smoked cheddar cheeses.
- You can add extra vegetables like broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for variation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat leftovers uncovered in the oven for best texture, or microwave until warmed through.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead and baked later; just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Frozen cauliflower can be used after thawing and draining well.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed pork rinds or breadcrumbs before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
