Okay, picture this: I’m With crispy bacon bits and a hint of green onion all nestled around tender, tender Chicken Breast. What is a good comfort food without sugar? *quite* the guilt. What is cauliflower? If you’re not a cauliflower fan, this recipe will convert you. I always make this when I’m craving something hearty but want to keep things relatively healthy. Is it addictive?
What is a loaded cauliflower casserole?
What is the ultimate cauliflower makeover? Is it a cauliflower floret smothered in cheesy sauce? What are the typical toppings on a Baked Potato? Is baked potato casserole healthy? What are bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions? What is the beauty of this dish is that it’s endlessly customizable. I’ve been known to eat it as a main course on more than one occasion. I mean, who am I kidding? I had it for dinner last night!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to eat cauliflower in a casserole? First, the flavor is simply amazing. The creamy cheese sauce combined with the salty bacon and the slight bite of the green onions. Is there a symphony of flavors that’s just irresistible? Is it surprisingly easy to make? Is it one of those dishes where you can throw everything together, pop it in the oven, and forget about it? I’ve been thinking about it for a while now. What I love most about this is how budget friendly it is. Cauliflower is relatively inexpensive, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients. Is it versatile? What are some good Side Dishes to serve with grilled chicken or steak? Honestly, it’s become a staple in our house. Is it more forgiving than potato casserole?
How do you make a cauliflower casserole?
Quick Overview
How do I make a loaded cauliflower casserole? How do you cook cauliflower? While that’s happening, you’ll whip up a super simple cheese sauce. How do you combine cauliflower, cheese sauce, and your favorite toppings in a baking dish? Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool. What’s the best part about a computer? Even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this recipe. You got this!
Ingredients
What is Cauliflower?
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets (about 6 cups). Fresh is best, but you can use frozen cauliflower florets if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
What is the cheese sauce?
I use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour. This helps thicken the sauce. Can you use a gluten-free flour blend?
I usually use whole milk for the richest flavor, but 2% works just fine too. I’ve tested it with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
What is the best way to eat cheddar cheese? Sharp cheddar is my personal favorite, but you can use any kind of cheese you like. What is Gruyere?
1/2 teaspoon salt.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
What is the best garlic powder?
For the Toppings:
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled. Crispy bacon is key! I always cook extra so I can snack on it while I’m preparing the rest of the dish.
What is the best substitute for sour cream?
1/4 cup chopped green onions. Fresh green onion is a must! They add a pop of color and flavor.
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. What are some tips for cleaning a casserole? I always do this first so the oven is ready when I need it!
Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower
What are the best ways to cook cauliflower? I prefer steaming cauliflower because it helps retain more of the nutrients and prevents them from sticking to the skin. How can I stop getting To steam, place cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Is it okay to pierce cauliflower with a fork? Alternatively, you can boil the cauliflower for 3-5 minutes, or roast it in the oven at 400°F. (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
While cauliflower is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Set aside. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is called a roux, and it’s the base of the cheese sauce. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. How do you burn sauce?
Step 4: Combine Everything
In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked cauliflower and cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat the cauliflower evenly with the sauce. I like to make sure every single floret is covered in that cheesy goodness!
Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cauliflower mixture. Press the toppings down slightly so they adhere to the sauce.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown. How do you cook cheese in an oven?
Step 7: Cool & Serve
What are some ways to remove a casserole from the oven and let it cool completely before serving. This will allow the cheese sauce to set up slightly. Dollop with sour cream before serving. I usually serve it right away, but it’s also delicious at room temperature or even cold!
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best recipes for a Cauliflower Casserole?
What’s a good weeknight dinner?What are some great Side Dishes to serve with grilled chicken or steak? I often pair it with a simple green salad for an easy and satisfying meal.
For a Holiday Gathering:This casserole makes a great side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. What is a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes or mac and cheese? My family always raves about it!
For a Casual Get-Together:What is a good casserole to serve for supper? Can you serve it as an appetizer with tortilla chips or crackers?
For a Cozy Night In:What is a perfect casserole to serve on its own? What are some good nights on the couch that you just want to watch a movie?
I’ve even served it with a sprinkle of paprika on top, for some extra colour. What is the best way to serve bacon?
What are some of the best tips for making a delicious cauliflower casserole?
How do I take my Loaded Cauliflower Casserole to the next level?
Don’t overcook Cauliflower: You want the cauliflower to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked cauliflower will result in a watery casserole.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly. Freshly grated cheese will melt more smoothly and create a creamier sauce.
Don’t Skip the Roux: The roux (butter and flour mixture) is essential for thickening the cheese sauce. Make sure to cook the roux for 1-2 minutes before adding the milk, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Customize the Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings. Try adding diced ham, cooked sausage, or sautéed mushrooms. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or provolone.
Add a Little Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicier flavor.
Make It Ahead of Time: This casserole can be made ahead of time and baked later. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed.
I learned the hard way that using too much milk makes for a runny sauce. It still tasted good, but the texture wasn’t right! Now, I always measure carefully.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store and reheat your Loaded Cauliflower Casserole:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the casserole cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Transfer it to an airtight container and store for up to 3-4 days. I always make sure it’s completely cool, or the condensation makes it a bit soggy.
Freezer Instructions: This casserole can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. It’s important to double wrap it, to keep the freezer burn out!
Reheating Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may be slightly different. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe is a total winner in my book. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and a healthier alternative to traditional comfort food. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can tailor it to your own taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a holiday gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other casserole recipes for more inspiration! Happy cooking! Let me know how yours turns out in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts! And if you tweak it, tell me all about it!
Loaded Cauliflower Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 0.5 cup bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 0.25 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam until tender-crisp.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked cauliflower, bacon, cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
