Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
A rich and creamy Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole featuring tender cauliflower florets baked in a luscious blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheeses. This comforting dish is perfect as a flavorful low-carb side or a satisfying vegetarian main.
- Author: Daniel
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Vegetables
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Cauliflower: Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are tender but still hold their shape, about 5-7 minutes. Drain them well and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheeses: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese evenly into the cream mixture.
- Combine Cauliflower: Add the cooked cauliflower florets to the cheese mixture, stirring gently until each piece is well coated with the cheesy sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and evenly spread the cauliflower and cheese mixture into it. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the casserole will be less creamy.
- To add extra flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or caramelized onions.
- For gluten-free preparation, ensure all seasonings and cheeses are gluten-free.
- The casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 180g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: cauliflower casserole, cheesy cauliflower, vegetarian casserole, low carb side dish, comfort food, baked cauliflower