Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
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.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
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)
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture, incorporating them evenly.
- Combine Cauliflower and Cheese Mixture: Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese mixture and gently stir until all the cauliflower is well coated.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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