Description
Hearty Loaded Cauliflower Casserole brings comfort and indulgence to dinner tables with its creamy cheese blend and crispy bacon topping. Cheese lovers and low-carb enthusiasts will savor this satisfying dish that delivers maximum flavor in every delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese
Dairy Components:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) heavy cream
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 375F (190C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light layer of grease.
- Cook cauliflower florets in boiling water or steam until they reach a tender consistency, then thoroughly drain and blot excess moisture with paper towels.
- Decide on the cauliflower texture – either gently mash or keep whole florets for a more rustic presentation.
- Create a creamy base by whisking sour cream, cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-integrated.
- Fold the prepared cauliflower into the cream mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Incorporate half of the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon into the cauliflower blend.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it uniformly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon over the top, creating an appetizing layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the casserole becomes golden and bubbles around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with finely chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve immediately while the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Notes
- Cauliflower prep matters. Steam or boil florets just until tender to prevent mushiness and retain nutrients.
- Texture flexibility allows personal preference. Mash for creamy consistency or keep florets whole for more bite.
- Low-carb champions can replace bacon with turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian option.
- Dairy-free alternatives work seamlessly. Swap regular dairy with coconut cream, vegan cream cheese, and plant-based cheese for sensitive diets.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg