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Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

4.8 from 72 reviews

This Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a rich and comforting side dish featuring tender cauliflower florets enveloped in a creamy blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese, enhanced with garlic and a touch of paprika for warmth. Baked until bubbly and golden brown, this casserole makes a perfect low-carb, satisfying accompaniment for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

Cheese Mixture

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 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)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
  2. Cook Cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain well to remove excess water and set aside.
  3. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
  4. Add Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture, incorporating them evenly.
  5. Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Mixture: Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese mixture and gently stir until all the cauliflower is well coated.
  6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the cauliflower and cheese mixture into it. Spread it out evenly and then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • Using fresh garlic rather than garlic powder enhances the flavor profile.
  • Drain the cauliflower thoroughly after steaming to avoid a watery casserole.
  • Feel free to add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch, though this will add carbs.
  • This casserole pairs well with roasted meats or a fresh green salad.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

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