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Loaded Cauliflower Casserole

Indulgent Loaded Cauliflower Casserole You’ll Crave Always

This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole brings a healthy twist to comfort food, featuring roasted cauliflower, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 head Cauliflower or broccoli as a substitute
  • 8 slices Bacon or turkey bacon for a lighter choice
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese or Monterey Jack or Gruyère for variety
  • 1 cup Sour Cream or Greek yogurt for a low-fat alternative
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option
  • 0.5 cup Heavy Cream or half-and-half or coconut cream for lighter option
Flavor Enhancers
  • 1 medium Onion or shallots for milder taste
  • 2 cloves Garlic or garlic powder as a quick alternative
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika optional
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes optional
For Garnishing
  • 2 tablespoons Chives or Parsley or basil or oregano as substitutes

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • mixing bowl
  • hand mixer or whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Loaded Cauliflower Casserole
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Place cauliflower florets in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, cover, and microwave for about 4–5 minutes until tender. Drain and dry well.
  3. In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Cool on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion in bacon fat over medium heat until translucent (3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic for the last 30 seconds.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk.
  6. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the creamy mixture. Stir to combine.
  7. Fold in the steamed cauliflower and half of the crumbled bacon until well-coated, but be careful not to overmix.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spread evenly, and top with remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbly on top. Watch for melted and slightly browned cheese.
  10. Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 15gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese and dry the cauliflower thoroughly to avoid a soggy casserole. You can assemble it the night before for easy baking later.

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